How My Group Online Tracks Attendance Using Bluetooth
My Group Online uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to show live group presence—without GPS, internet, or personal data.
Plain-Language Explanation
Each participant's phone quietly acts like an AirTag-style beacon.
The guide's phone detects nearby group members using Bluetooth.
That's it.
What Bluetooth Low Energy Means
Extremely low battery usage
BLE consumes minimal power—similar to AirPods or fitness trackers. Your phone battery lasts all day.
Short-range detection
Bluetooth works within a typical group radius (30-50 meters). Perfect for tours, buses, and classroom settings.
Designed for proximity, not tracking
BLE tells you if someone is nearby—not where they are or where they've been.
What It Is NOT
Not GPS
We don't use satellite positioning or map coordinates
Not location tracking
No breadcrumb trails or movement history
Not surveillance
Only detects whether someone is nearby right now
The app only detects whether a group member is nearby. Read our privacy policy.
Why Bluetooth Is Ideal for Groups
Works offline
No internet, Wi-Fi, or cellular signal required
Functions indoors and outdoors
Museums, buses, tunnels, forests—it all works
Respects privacy by design
No personal data, no location history, no surveillance
More reliable than check-ins
Automatic detection vs. manual QR codes or taps
Bluetooth vs Other Methods
| Method | How It Works | Privacy | Offline? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth (My Group Online) | Live presence detection | Private—no location data | ✓ Yes |
| GPS tracking apps | Tracks location coordinates | Privacy concerns—full location history | ✗ No |
| QR code check-ins | Manual scanning required | Varies—often requires accounts | Depends |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)?
BLE is a low-power wireless technology designed to detect nearby devices while using minimal battery.
Does My Group Online track location using Bluetooth?
No. The app only detects whether a group member's phone is nearby. It does not track location or movement.
Is Bluetooth safe to use for attendance tracking?
Yes. BLE is widely used for proximity detection and is designed for secure, low-impact communication.
Will Bluetooth drain my phone's battery?
No. Bluetooth Low Energy is specifically optimized to use very little battery.
Why use Bluetooth instead of GPS or check-ins?
Bluetooth works offline, respects privacy, and provides live presence without requiring user interaction.