eleven-x and Skyhook collaborate on WiFi tracking solution

eleven-x Inc., Waterloo-based full-service low power IoT solution provider and operator of the first and only public coast-to-coast network optimized for IoT, and Skyhook, pioneers in location-based positioning and operator of the world’s largest independent Wi-Fi and cell-based positioning system, are excited to announce the development of a Wi-Fi-enabled location tracking solution that is optimized for use on LoRaWAN networks. 

This innovative hybrid solution combines two of today’s leading wireless technologies – Wi-Fi and LoRaWAN – to enable precise location services for low-cost devices that can be used almost anywhere, with significantly improved accuracy, efficiency and scanning capabilities for Wi-Fi access points. The collaboration included the development of both a reference device architecture and a connectivity platform. Both utilize the key benefits of LoRaWAN technology, specifically the long range, long-life battery power and the low-power data communications. The flexible and adaptable solution extends Skyhook’s technology capabilities and enables fast Wi-Fi access point scanning and signal-level monitoring without the need for expensive cellular data services.

With improved capability and increased cost efficiency, the solution is primed to provide a compelling alternative to current wireless tracking solutions. Use case applications including a wide variety of geo-bounded assets that rely on traditional expensive wireless technologies. Specific use cases include tracking of city assets such as school buses or snow plows, shared bikes and scooters and industrial assets such as pallets, merchandise, work crews and other construction assets.

Influx of demand for accurate, network-based localization solutions

“We’re excited to work with the eleven-x team on the development of this solution,” says Skyhook’s director of product, Nick Knellinger. “With the increase in deployments of LPWAN networks, including both public and private LoRaWAN networks, Skyhook has seen an influx of demand for accurate, network-based localization solutions for various IoT applications. This product and reference architecture allow for the ability to tune for specific power and accuracy requirements for low-power and bandwidth constrained networks, showing what is possible for deployments where extended battery life is a must and GPS hardware may be unnecessary.”

“Leveraging two teams who are experts in their respective technology fields to develop a cost-efficient solution for location-based tracking was really exciting for us,” said eleven-x CEO, Dan Mathers. “The potential of this hybrid solution has the ability to significantly disrupt the current asset tracking space and specifically Smart Cities and industrial use cases where current GPS tracking solutions are simply too cumbersome and costly.”