How to create BLE-powered apps that can help companies achieve their business goals. For every App Owner, we have 8 tips for BLE app development.
Are you looking to build a mobile app that connects with a Bluetooth Low Energy device (BLE)? You are here because you want to create a mobile app that connects with a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) device. Here are 8 tips and tricks to help you with your IoT mobile application development.
What is Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)?
Smartphones are becoming more sophisticated with more sensors. However, for more functionality, they will often need to be connected to other devices. Bluetooth Low Energy connections are most likely to be used by devices that can connect with smartphones.
BLE uses low power and has a limited range, but it is sufficient for multiple applications. A device can run longer on a single battery because it uses very little power.
This technology can be used to create smart homes, wearables and healthcare devices. BLE was used in many projects by our clients. Loop app enables users to connect to Wi-Fi and allows them to share video, photos, and video chat. OhMiBod App connects to OhMiBod gadgets remotely. Skybuds App connects with wireless headphones.
There are some important points to remember when building an app that uses BLE. We have many years of experience with this type of product and can share our key tips with you.
1. A polished onboarding experience
Your Bluetooth device may need additional setup to get it working. You should include drawings, photos, and videos in your onboarding process. This is especially important if the user needs to press a button or scan a code to attach the device.
Images and videos can be worth a thousand words. They will save you time and effort otherwise required for copywriting and translations. Users will be able to see exactly what they should do. This shows your commitment to your product and willingness to go the extra mile to ensure the best possible experience.
2. For permissions, ask
Permissions are another important aspect of BLE mobile app development. BLE apps must have permissions to use Bluetooth and often location services in order to function properly.
It's important to explain why you are asking for permission if it seems unusual. The user might refuse to give permission, which could make their experience even worse. Although this is often overlooked by developers and designers, it makes a significant contribution to the overall user experience.
What can you do then?
Take into account the content that the user is reading. Make sure to clearly state the reason you are asking for permissions, and the impact on the user's experience. This will allow users to make informed decisions. To increase readership, keep it brief.
Be mindful of when you ask for permission. You don't want to overwhelm users with too many requests at once unless it is your intention to make a bad impression. You can either spread it over the onboarding period, or when the user is using the feature for the first-time. It is crucial that you make sure the information makes sense to the user and is justifiable.
Follow up conversations with support. Let users know if they are denied one of your key rights. The user should be able to correct the error if it is a mistake.
Allow users to change their mind. Or with location services disabled? You should prepare messages for such occasions.
3. Loading countries are your friends
The current state of the system is one of the most important rules in user experience design. Pairing devices or discovering them can take time. You don't want people staring at static UIs while they work on your product.
Users should be able see the progress of your app if it is pairing a device or working properly. This makes your app more alive, and it also helps you avoid waiting. BLE apps may have some pairing issues or syncing problems that need to be addressed in the user interface.
4. Handle errors gracefully
Errors happen. While it would be nice to avoid errors, this is not always possible. It's up to the individual to decide how they are handled. It is a good idea to explain the problem and provide a solution.
BLE apps may have limitations that users might not be able solve on their own. Sometimes, additional assistance may be needed. Users may contact support services to resolve the problem immediately.
5. Take care of empty states
In some cases, the smartphone cannot be connected to another device. What should a user do? What would they see? What would it mean for the app's capabilities and performance?
While some apps let you poke around, others require that they connect to a device. It all depends on what the user can do without a connected device. It would make sense for them to be able to access data.
6. It's easier to identify the device
Bluetooth devices have long, unique IDs that can be difficult to use. You can make it easier for someone to manage multiple devices by hiding some complexity. There are many clues that will help you identify the correct device, including buttons, signal range and QR codes. In cases where multiple devices are involved, users can customize the icons and names to make them more familiar.
7. Streamline firmware updates
BLE devices come with their own firmware that needs to be updated. It is necessary to inform users about updates and to let them know what has changed. This will also help guide them through the entire process. You may need to force the firmware upgrade in some cases to get the new features. It is a good idea to begin thinking about this early.
8. You can test the app on users using different devices
While QA testing any app is a good idea it can also be useful. However, real-life situations can offer valuable insights. You might be able to make new observations if you place your customers in front the app and the device. This is a great way to test assumptions, find obstacles and discover potential improvements.
Summary of tips for BLE app development
8 Tips for BLE Mobile App Development
1. Create a polished onboarding experience
2. For permissions, ask
3. Loading countries are your friends
4. Handle errors gracefully
5. Take care of empty states
6. It's easier to identify the device
7. Streamline firmware updates
8. You can test the app on users using different devices
These are 8 tips to help you develop a BLE app. For more information, or if you have questions about developing such an app, please contact us. We wish you all the best with your projects.
