Contactless check-ins using implied locations: A NFC solution simplifying business to consumer interaction in location based services

Abstract

There has been considerable focus on delivering location based services using Global Positioning Systems (GPS) in order to acquire user location details and enable over the air interactions or experiences. In this paper we present an alternative system, where the focus changes to the use of Implied Location Based Services (ILBS) using Near Field Communications (NFC) enabled phones and tags. The user has to physically be at a specific location in order to enable specific actions; allowing for a more intimate interaction as users physically interact with the NFC terminal. To illustrate the concept we present a RFID tag based check-in system using Social Networks as a means to determine and validate the user's location. We present a black box prototype and discuss the advantages, disadvantages and suitability of such a system for different use-cases. We argue how physical check-ins simplify the user experience and remove the need for technical competency, user hardware or awareness of positioning accuracy.