Nordic Semiconductor has launched a software-defined tag for location tracking and IoT device development. As a platform compatible with Apple and Google's location networks, it is characterized by its support for the development and prototyping of low-power wireless IoT devices.


Nordic announced on the 19th that it has released a prototyping tag based on the nRF54L15. The product is a hardware platform designed to enable developers to quickly perform proof of concept (PoC) for ultra-low power wireless products.

The nRF54L15 tag is a System-on-Chip (SoC) based wireless platform that integrates Bluetooth, sensing, and data processing functions into a single device.

This product supports Apple 'Find My' and Google 'Find Hub' networks. The two services are crowdsourcing-based location search systems that share location information using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and nearby smartphones.

Key features include distance measurement based on Bluetooth channel sounding, improved location accuracy through dual antenna design, data processing based on edge AI and sensors, and smart home support based on Matter and Thread.

In addition, by incorporating a 6-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU) and an environment sensor, it is possible to implement functions such as gesture recognition and detection of abnormal signs.

The nRF54L15 tag is powered by a CR2032 coin cell battery. It is designed to automatically activate upon motion detection and switch to power-saving mode when inactive.

With a diameter of approximately 33mm, it can be applied to small devices and can be utilized in the development of various IoT products such as trackers and wearables.

In addition, pre-programmed firmware, schematics, bill of materials (BOM), and layout files are provided for developers. Over-the-Air (OTA) updates and external GPIO expansion are also supported.

The company explained that while software-defined radio implements functions through software, this product is utilized as an IoT development platform that integrates wireless communication capabilities and sensors.

Nordic stated that the tag provides an environment for simultaneously testing location tracking, smart home, and IoT device development. It is currently being supplied through global distribution networks.