Some argue that iBeacon has the potential to completely change the way we interact with environments, from retail outlets to museums – and others even claim that it could “change the world forever”. But what makes it so special?

iBeacon technology has long been used in Apple retail stores, and now it's spreading out to other retail outlets. Mook Group, an upscale German restaurant chain, has implemented iBeacon technology in its high-tech reward and loyalty scheme.

From paying at self-checkouts to ordering with apps, modern shoppers are handling more and more elements of the shopping journey themselves. But is streamlining the shopping experience removing the personal element of retail?

In the smartphone era, 'traditional' card-based loyalty schemes are evolving. How does Shopkick, an app that rewards people for shopping, inject new life into the high street?