HPE Aruba Networking has introduced several new products designed specifically for the retail sector, aiming to enhance connectivity for in-store and IoT networks while improving analytics and streamlining management processes. The updated retail-ready networking portfolio includes the 100 Series Cellular Bridge, an 18-port Ethernet switch that fits into compact spaces, and the 750 Series wireless access point, all manageable via HPE’s Aruba Networking Central platform.
Among the highlights is the Cellular Bridge, which offers 5G fixed wireless access that is ideal for remote locations or temporary setups. This bridge supports 4G/5G connectivity across both public and private cellular networks, providing retailers a backup connectivity option that is crucial for services like curbside pickup and credit card transactions. Gayle Levin, the head of wireless product marketing at HPE Aruba, emphasizes the importance of reliable connectivity for critical business functions.
Additionally, the compact Ethernet switch and existing edge computing servers facilitate AI inference capabilities at the edge, addressing the need for low latency in handling extensive data volumes in retail environments. The 750 Series Access Points can achieve aggregate tri-band data rates of up to 18.7 Gbps and support a significant array of IoT devices with innovative enhancements for device connections, including BLE, Zigbee, and USB ports. These improvements allow for more efficient data pre-processing and near real-time AI inference.
The management tools bundled within HPE Aruba’s Networking Central feature User Experience Insights, providing IT teams visibility into device performance issues that could disrupt customer experience. This includes monitoring from the device level up to the application, allowing for quicker problem resolution.
Moreover, new AI capabilities include detecting potential IoT breaches by monitoring unusual data transfer patterns and offering insights that can enhance customer experiences both in-store and during curbside service.
Retailers are increasingly integrating IoT into their operations—for example, using in-store robots for inventory checks and refrigeration units for temperature monitoring. The data generated by these devices can be harnessed for advanced analytics, improving adaptive advertising and personalized customer interactions.
In summary, HPE Aruba’s new offerings seek to bolster the retail industry’s reliance on innovative connectivity solutions, aiming to further integrate IoT, edge computing, and AI technology into everyday retail operations.
