Bluetooth AoA Vs. RSSI: What’s the Difference?

In the last two decades, Bluetooth technology has seen rapid development, ushering in a new era of wireless connectivity. With its range and versatility, Bluetooth lets users connect devices and quickly and easily transfer data over short distances.

There are two main types of Bluetooth technologies: Bluetooth AoA (Angle of Arrival) and Bluetooth RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indication). Both technologies have their advantages and can be used in different scenarios.

Bluetooth AoA Technology

Bluetooth AoA and Bluetooth RSSI: What They Are, And Their Working Principle

Taking Blueiot’s complete set of solutions as an example, the RTLS smart logistics tracking system consists of four main components:

Bluetooth AoA:

This cloud-based platform stores, processes, and displays tracking data. It allows users to track the location of items and staff in real-time and access analytics tools to gain insight into production processes.

Bluetooth RSSI:

Bluetooth RSSI is used to measure the strength of a Bluetooth signal at any given moment. The technology can be deployed in various scenarios, including indoor navigation, asset tracking, and proximity detection. The higher the signal strength, the easier it is for devices to communicate with each other over short distances. Furthermore, Bluetooth RSSI can identify which device is closest to a specific location, making it ideal for asset tracking and indoor navigation applications.

Differences between Bluetooth AoA and Bluetooth RSSI

The key differences between Bluetooth AoA and Bluetooth RSSI include the following:

Protocol: Bluetooth AoA uses the latest Bluetooth 5.1 protocol, while Bluetooth RSSI requires a minimum of Bluetooth 4.0+.

Typical accuracy: The typical accuracy of Bluetooth AoA ranges from 0.1 to 0.5 m, whereas that of Bluetooth RSSI is between 5 and 10 m.

Refresh rate: The refresh rate of Bluetooth AoA is higher than that of Bluetooth RSSI.

Tag power consumption: The tag power consumption of Bluetooth AoA is lower than that of Bluetooth RSSI.

Anchor cost: The anchor cost of Bluetooth AoA is generally higher than that of Bluetooth RSSI.

Tag cost: The tag cost for Bluetooth AoA is usually lower than that for Bluetooth RSSI.

loT anchor capabilities: The AoA locating anchor not only provides high-precision indoor positioning services, but also serves as a Bluetooth gateway to access all kinds of Bluetooth IoT sensor data, while RSSI devices don't.

Introducing Blueiot’s Bluetooth AoA solutions

Blueiot’s Bluetooth AoA solutions offer many benefits, making it an ideal technology for indoor navigation, asset tracking, and proximity detection applications.

Enhanced accuracy: Blueiot’s advanced signal processing technology enables sub-meter level of accuracy when tracking multiple devices in the same area.

Efficient indoor positioning technology: Blueiot’s Bluetooth AoA solutions enable accurate and efficient indoor navigation by providing precise location and orientation data.

Low power consumption: Blueiot’s Bluetooth AoA solutions are designed for low-energy operation, allowing them to be deployed in battery-powered devices with minimal impact on power consumption.

Seamless asset tracking: The technology can accurately track multiple assets over short distances, making it ideal for asset-tracking applications.

Secure data transmission: Bluetooth AoA provides secure and reliable data transmission, ensuring that sensitive information is always protected.

Cost-effective solution: Blueiot’s Bluetooth AoA solutions are easy to use and cost-effective. They can be deployed in any type of environment quickly and with minimal effort. 

Easily scalable indoor navigation solution for all types of BLE  tags, including mobile phones, bracelets, watches, and beacons.

Support for loT anchor capabilities, such as asset tracking and proximity detection.

Robust wireless connectivity and reliable operation in any environment, including outdoors and underground locations.

About Blueiot

Blueiot is a high-tech company that provides real-time location systems based on Bluetooth Angle of Arrival (AoA) technology. Our mission is to provide enterprise customers with the most accurate and cost-effective indoor navigation solutions, enabling us to unlock new experiences, insights, and efficiencies through connected devices. Our core product is a positioning platform that includes both hardware and software components, with the ability to integrate with existing networks and platforms.

Blueiot has successfully deployed its solutions in various industries, including manufacturing, warehouse & logistics, retail, hospitals, and transportation. In addition to the positioning platform, we also provide professional services, including data analytics and consulting.

With our cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions, Blueiot has transformed how people interact with their surroundings!