Oppo introduced Zero-Power Tag - like AirTag, only without batteries

At the MWC 2023 conference, Oppo showed a prototype of the Zero-Power Tag beacon. It will allow you to track the location of valuables and work in temperature and humidity sensor mode.

The gadget uses Zero-power Communication Technology, which Oppo introduced back in January 2022, but still haven't used it in my products. The idea is to collect RF signals from surrounding sources (radio towers, cellular stations, Wi-Fi access points, etc.) and backscatter them to transmit information. Given the variety of RF signal sources, such a device does not need a battery.

The data collected by the beacon can be tracked in the application on the smartphone. But finding things and viewing temperature and humidity isn't the only use for the technology. Oppo notes that with such sensors it will be possible to track the movement of birds that are on the verge of extinction.

Right now, the Oppo Zero-Power Tag looks like a black or white plastic card. In the future, the manufacturer plans to reduce the thickness to a sticker that will be easier to attach to things - and such a solution will attract less attention. A possible release of the model shown at the exhibition is not reported. Probably, for now, this is just a demonstration of technology, which will still be finalized and tested before a commercial release.