Apple’s first iBeacon-enabled hardware has passed through the FCC

An FCC filing discovered on Saturday reveals in-depth details on Apple’s first dedicated iBeacon-compatible beacon hardware, suggesting the company may soon introduce the micro-location technology to consumer spaces like so-called “smart homes.” Filed with the U.S. Federal Communications Commission’s Office of Engineering and Technology (OET), the original equipment application is the first clear sign that Apple is testing an in-house hardware solution for its location-aware iBeacon technology. The document was spotted by Securifi and subsequently reported by TUAW. According to the OET’s paperwork, the device is labeled “Apple iBeacon” and carries the model number A1573. Hardware testing was performed at a facility owned by Chinese company Audix Technology, which ran assessments using a conducted shielding enclosure, a semi-anechoic chamber and other specialized equipment at the end of April through mid-May.