Nodle unveils open-source Bluetooth ‘nanocomputer’ N1 sticker aimed at increasing IoT connectivity across industries.
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Decentralized network provider Nodle has launched a Bluetooth hardware sticker that is aimed at increasing Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity for a variety of industrial use cases.
The firm announced that it will open-source its Nodle NanoComputer (N1), which features a hardware security module that enables a range of Bluetooth operations. The N1 can be attached to any variety of items, with use cases ranging from logistics to track-and-trace applications.
Speaking exclusively to Cointelegraph, Nodle co-founder Garrett Kinsman said the intended use of the devices is to “bring intelligence to assets” that are not yet linked to an IoT network or are physically difficult to connect:
While Nodle will use the devices to increase the coverage and connectivity of devices utilizing its Bluetooth-based blockchain network, Kinsman believes the decision to make the technology open source stands to benefit the wider IoT industry.
Furthermore, the impact of blockchain technology provides a decentralized alternative to conventional IoT networks that host data from sensors and devices on centralized servers. Kinsman said that the latter relies on trust in a centralized point, which can be hacked, tampered with or modified:
As previously explored by Cointelegraph, Nodle’s network taps into the Bluetooth connectivity of a variety of smart devices for renting computing power, storage and communication capabilities. Nodle essentially uses smartphones to locate and connect nearby Bluetooth-connected objects in over 160 countries.
Kinsman also touched on the environmental impact of Bluetooth devices and N1’s approach to lessen its footprint. While the N1 uses a powered tag to provide enough energy for more advanced functionality of its hardware, it makes use of a rechargeable, zinc-based battery that is touted to have a 92% lower greenhouse gas impact than older-generation power sources.
Kinsman added that these batteries can last for years depending on usage, but running a Bluetooth chipset will generally last 12-24 months, depending on the use case.
The hardware itself is touted as Web3 native hardware, featuring a secure element that encrypts data. The N1 also has a processor that is capable of running basic applications that can communicate with the Nodle blockchain.
The devices are envisioned to provide further capabilities to conventional asset tracking by providing measurable metrics and data, including temperature, humidity, light and motion sensors.
A long-term goal for the hardware is to be able to host files, communicate with satellites and form part of mesh networks.
