Free e-book: Discover the world of AIoT
E-book: Discover the world of AIoT

BLE Channel Sounding (Bluetooth 6.0)

We turn Bluetooth into an accurate, secure distance sensor, reliable enough for access control and safety-critical solutions.
needCode IoT

We work with Industry Leaders

Challenges with BLE proximity sensing

Building trusted proximity solutions with standard Bluetooth is limited by fundamental technological hurdles, compromising both accuracy and reliability.

Inaccuracy of traditional RSSI

Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) is unreliable, fluctuating wildly due to multipath effects, signal reflection, and environmental noise. This inherent instability makes achieving reliable sub-meter accuracy impossible in real-world deployments.

Interference in complex environments

Signal fading and interference in dense industrial settings, complex office layouts, or urban canyons severely compromise the effectiveness of RSSI-based systems, leading to frustrating false positives or missed safety alerts.

Lack of trusted authentication

Legacy proximity based on RSSI only confirms signal presence, not verifiable, true distance or secure identity. This lack of verifiable proof fails regulatory and security compliance requirements for critical applications like physical access control.

High power consumption for alternatives

Achieving high location accuracy typically requires high-complexity or high-frequency polling, which compromises the ultra-low-power goals of wearable or battery-powered devices, defeating the purpose of choosing BLE.

Our solutions for BLE channel sounding

Our modular ecosystem integrates cutting-edge hardware, advanced algorithms, and secure software to unlock the full spatial intelligence potential of Bluetooth.

01

The hardware foundation

nRF54 Series Readiness

We design and implement solutions on future-ready chipsets (e.g., Nordic nRF54 and nRF53) optimized to natively support Bluetooth 6.0 Channel Sounding, ensuring long-term product viability.

Low-power wearable form factors

We engineer custom hardware with compact antenna layouts and Flexible PCBs to realize ultra-low-power wearable tags for personnel, enabling months or years of battery life.

Optimized antenna array design

Custom design of antenna configurations is crucial to maximize the precision of Phase-based Ranging (PBR), the core mechanism used by Channel Sounding.

02

The software intelligence

Phase-based ranging (PBR) engine

Implementation of advanced algorithms that process the raw radio phase data from Channel Sounding to derive a verifiable, sub-meter distance measurement in real-time.

Trusted proximity protocol

Custom firmware layers combine the accurate distance estimate with cryptographic authentication to generate a single, secure "Trusted Proximity" event (verified distance + verified identity).

Dynamic threshold management

Implementation of instant-response logic that triggers critical actions when a device crosses specific, configurable distance boundaries (e.g., Green - Safe, Yellow - Warning, Red - Critical).

03

The analytics & integration

Side-by-side validation layer

We provide a visualization and logging platform designed to compare Channel Sounding accuracy directly against legacy RSSI data, offering unquestionable proof of superiority for stakeholder adoption.

Secure API gateway for access control

Seamless integration with existing enterprise security and operational systems (e.g., MES, WMS) via secure APIs, enabling secure physical access control based on trusted distance.

Real-time safety alert engine

A robust embedded engine designed for sub-millisecond reaction times, instantly converting proximity events into safety alerts or automated machine shutdowns when a worker enters a hazardous zone.

Where our solutions fit

Our expertise in Channel Sounding allows us to deploy safety-critical and high-value applications across diverse industrial and commercial sectors.

Access & entry systems

  • Secure access control
    Grant access to server rooms or high-value cabinets only when a user is verifiably within the specific, sub-meter proximity limit.
  • Keyless entry authentication
    Enable secure, hands-free entry into vehicles or restricted zones using distance and identity verification, eliminating spoofing risks.
  • Trusted proximity for payment
    Authorize payment transactions at retail or industrial terminals based on the cryptographically proven distance from a wearable device.

Industrial safety & manufacturing

  • Hazardous geofencing
    Establish precise, virtual safety fences around heavy machinery or automated guided vehicles (AGVs), triggering an instant stop when a worker's tag crosses the Red boundary.
  • Collision avoidance
    Provide highly accurate, real-time proximity warnings between personnel, forklifts, and robotic systems on busy factory floors.
  • Tool / equipment compliance
    Ensure critical, high-value tools or foreign object debris (FOD) are not left within restricted or sensitive assembly areas, meeting strict compliance standards.

Smart buildings & offices

  • Privacy-preserving presence
    Accurately detect room or zone occupancy for lighting and HVAC automation using verified distance, eliminating the need for cameras or sensitive PIR sensors.
  • Personalized retail experience
    Trigger personalized, context-aware information on digital displays when a customer is verifiably within one meter of a specific product.
  • Efficient asset tracking
    Locate high-value office or lab equipment and ensure compliance by verifying they remain within authorized operational zones.

What we bring to your project

We guarantee technical excellence, clear validation, and strategic partnership to ensure your product leads the market in trusted proximity.

01

BLE 6.0 leadership

We position your product as a market leader by integrating the latest Bluetooth 6.0 capabilities, guaranteeing a system aligned with next-generation standards and future-proofed technology.

02

Side-by-side proof of sophistication

We offer a clear demonstration framework that visually and quantitatively proves the superior performance of Channel Sounding over legacy RSSI, accelerating stakeholder buy-in.

03

Guaranteed determinism and security

Our deep expertise in RTOS and cryptographic protocols ensures the system delivers sub-meter accuracy with the speed and security essential for mission-critical applications.

04

End-to-end smart product development

Our services cover the entire lifecycle, from low-power chip selection (nRF54) and custom antenna design to final application-layer integration and certification.

Asset Tracking Solutions: Case studies

Read more in our E-books

Testimonials

“I think the key takeaway from needCode is their ability to adapt and understand the customer's requirements. That took away probably a large portion of what could have been a lot of development time and expense for both companies.”
Bob Folkestad
Bob Folkestad
President at Creative Werks
“One aspect that truly sets needCode apart is its profound expertise in firmware development. Their proficiency in various programming languages, embedded systems and hardware architecture is truly impressive. When faced with difficult problems, their strong problem-solving skills and analytical mindset shine through, allowing them to overcome obstacles with remarkable ease.”
avatar Semeh Sarhan
Semeh Sarhan
CEO at Xtrava
“I worked with needCode while leading the NWTN-Berlin team in 2018. A big chunk for our FW development has been outsourced to them and they had proven to iterate very quickly, following specs and deliver on time. It was great working with them. I recommend working with needCode’s team on any Embedded SW development.”
avatar Marco Salvioli Mariani
Marco Salvioli Mariani
CTO at NWTN Berlin GmbH
“needCode Team proved to be one of the best engineers I have ever met. The part I like the most about the team is the more difficult an obstacle seems to be, the more motivated they were to find a solution and a way forward.”
A Testimonial picture
Szymon Słupnik
CTO at Silvair
“needCode is an outstanding partner. Their quick follow-up, scalability, and extensive professional network set them apart. Their expertise in wireless technologies has been valuable, supporting us from low-level drivers to architecture discussions.”
avatar Tim Allemeersch
Tim Allemeersch
Director at Qorvo, Inc.
“needCode did a great job improving the firmware of the Vai Kai connected toys and developing new features, surpassing our expectations multiple times. I would definitely recommend hiring Bartek and needCode for the embedded software projects!”
avatar Matas Petrikas
Matas Petrikas
CEO & Co-founder
at Vai Kai UG

Partnerships:

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Bartek Kling
Bartek Kling / CEO
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Manufacturing

Modern manufacturing machines are typically equipped with IoT sensors that capture performance data. AIoT technology analyzes this sensor data, and based on vibration patterns, the AI predicts the machine's behavior and recommends actions to maintain optimal performance. This approach is highly effective for predictive maintenance, promoting safer working environments, continuous operation, longer equipment lifespan, and less downtime. Additionally, AIoT enhances quality control on production lines.

For example, Sentinel, a monitoring system used in pharmaceutical production by IMA Pharma, employs AI to evaluate sensor data along the production line. The AI detects and improves underperforming components, ensuring efficient machine operation and maintaining high standards in drug manufacturing.

Logistics & supply chain

IoT devices - from fleet vehicles and autonomous warehouse robots to scanners and beacons - generate large amounts of data in this industry. When combined with AI, this data can be leveraged for tracking, analytics, predictive maintenance, autonomous driving, and more, offering greater visibility into logistics operations and enhancing vendor partnerships.

Example: Amazon employs over 750,000 autonomous mobile robots to assist warehouse staff with heavy lifting, delivery, and package handling tasks. Other examples include AI-powered IoT devices such as cameras, RFID sensors, and beacons that help monitor goods' movement and track products within warehouses and during transportation. AI algorithms can also estimate arrival times and forecast delays by analyzing traffic conditions.

Retail

IoT sensors monitor movement and customer flow within a building, while AI algorithms analyze this data to offer insights into traffic patterns and product preferences. This information enhances understanding of customer behavior, helps prevent stockouts, and improves customer analytics to drive sales. Furthermore, AIoT enables retailers to deliver personalized shopping experiences by leveraging geographical data and individual shopping preferences.

For instance, IoT sensors track movement and customer flow, and AI algorithms process this information to reveal insights into traffic patterns and product preferences. This ultimately leads to better customer understanding, stockout prevention, and enhanced sales analytics.

Agriculture

Recent research by Continental reveals that over 27% of surveyed farmers utilize drones for aerial land analysis. These devices capture images of crops as they are and transmit them to a dashboard for further assessment. However, AI can enhance this process even further.

For example, AIoT-powered drones can photograph crops at various growth stages, assess plant health, detect diseases, and recommend optimal harvesting strategies to maximize yield. Additionally, these drones can be employed for targeted crop treatments, irrigation monitoring and management, soil health analysis, and more.

Smart Cities

Smart cities represent another domain where AIoT applications can enhance citizens' well-being, facilitate urban infrastructure planning, and guide future city development. In addition to traffic management, IoT devices equipped with AI can monitor energy consumption patterns, forecast demand fluctuations, and dynamically optimize energy distribution. AI-powered surveillance cameras and sensors can identify suspicious activities, monitor crowd density, and alert authorities to potential security threats in real-time, improving public safety and security.

For example, an AIoT solution has been implemented in Barcelona to manage water and energy sustainably. The city has installed IoT sensors across its water supply system to gather water pressure, flow rate, and quality data. AI algorithms analyze this information to identify leaks and optimize water usage. Similarly, smart grids have been introduced to leverage AI to predict demand and distribute energy efficiently, minimizing waste and emissions. As a result, these initiatives have enabled the city to reduce water waste by 25%, increase renewable energy usage by 17%, and lower greenhouse gas emissions by 19%.

Healthcare

Integrating AI and IoT in healthcare enables hospitals to deliver remote patient care more efficiently while reducing the burden on facilities. Additionally, AI can be used in clinical trials to preprocess data collected from sensors across extensive target and control groups.

For example, intelligent wearable technologies enable doctors to monitor patients remotely. In real-time, sensors collect vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and glucose levels. AI algorithms then analyze this data, assisting doctors in detecting issues early, developing personalized treatment plans, and enhancing patient outcomes.

Smart Homes

The smart home ecosystem encompasses smart thermostats, locks, security cameras, energy management systems, heating, lighting, and entertainment systems. AI algorithms analyze data from these devices to deliver context-specific recommendations tailored to each user. This enables homeowners to use utilities more efficiently, create a personalized living space, and achieve sustainability goals.

For example, LifeSmart offers a comprehensive suite of AI-powered IoT tools for smart homes, connecting new and existing intelligent appliances and allowing customers to manage them via their smartphones. Additionally, they provide an AI builder framework for deploying AI on smart devices, edge gateways, and the cloud, enabling AI algorithms to process data and user behavior autonomously.

Maintenance (Post-Release Support)

When your product is successfully launched and available on the market we provide ongoing support and maintenance services to ensure your product remains competitive and reliable. This includes prompt resolution of any reported issues through bug fixes and updates.

We continuously enhance product features based on user feedback and market insights, optimizing performance and user experience.

Our team monitors product performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and proactively addresses potential issues. This phase aims to sustain product competitiveness, ensure customer satisfaction, and support long-term success in the market.

Commercialization (From MVP to Product

Our software team focuses on completing the full product feature range, enhancing the user interface and experience, and handling all corner cases. We prepare product software across the whole lifecycle by providing all necessary procedures, such as manufacturing support and firmware upgrade.

We also finalize the product's hardware design to ensure robustness, scalability and cost-effectiveness.

This includes rigorous testing procedures to validate product performance, reliability, and security. We manage all necessary certifications and regulatory compliance requirements to ensure the product meets industry standards and legal obligations.

By the end of this phase, your product is fully prepared for mass production and commercial deployment, with all documentation and certifications in place.

Prototyping (From POC to MVP)

Our development team focuses on implementing core product features and use cases to create a functional Minimum Viable Product (MVP). We advance to refining the hardware design, moving from initial concepts to detailed PCB design allowing us to assemble first prototypes. Updated documentation from the Design phase ensures alignment with current project status. A basic test framework is established to conduct preliminary validation tests.

This prepares the product for real-world demonstrations to stakeholders, customers, and potential investors.

This phase is critical for validating market readiness and functionality before proceeding to full-scale production.

Design (From Idea to POC)

We meticulously select the optimal technology stack and hardware components based on your smart product idea with detailed use cases and feature requirements (Market Requirements Document / Business Requirements Document). Our team conducts thorough assessments of costs, performance metrics, power consumption, and resource requirements.

Deliverables include a comprehensive Product Requirements Document (PRD), detailed Software Architecture plans, an Initial Test Plan outlining validation strategies, Regulatory Compliance Analysis to ensure adherence to relevant standards, and a Proof of Concept (POC) prototype implemented on breakout boards.

This phase aims to validate the technical feasibility of your concept and establish a solid foundation for further development.

If you lack a validated idea and MRD/BRD, consider utilizing our IoT Strategic Roadmap service to gain insights into target markets, user needs, and desired functionality. Having a structured plan in the form of an IoT Strategic Roadmap before development begins is crucial to mitigate complications in subsequent product development phases.