Smart Navigation System Rolls Out at Russian Bus Terminals

A new indoor navigation system using BLE beacons and AR is now helping passengers in Rostov-on-Don find their way with ease.

A smart navigation platform has been deployed at bus stations in Russia, offering travelers an easier and more intuitive way to find their routes. The system, powered by 400 Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons, helps passengers move through transit hubs with real-time spatial guidance. The innovation was unveiled by Skolkovo, citing the resident company Indoors Navigation.

In Rostov-on-Don, both residents and tourists now use 3D maps of the station via a mobile app or touchscreen kiosks. Once a user enters their route number, the system automatically calculates the optimal path. Alternatively, users can scan QR codes posted throughout the station to access a browser-based map.

One of the standout features of the system is its augmented reality mode: through a smartphone camera, virtual directional signs appear overlaid on the environment, guiding the user visually along their route.

Beyond user convenience, the navigation system provides bus terminal administrators with real-time heat maps, movement tracking, and statistical analytics to better understand passenger flow.

The smart navigation rollout has enhanced customer service while also improving operational efficiency for terminal staff.

Other navigation upgrades are coming from Russia’s tech ecosystem as well. Yandex has introduced detailed 3D maps of interchanges, bridges, and tunnels in 50 Russian cities within Yandex Navigator and Yandex Maps. The new views let drivers clearly see lane markings, road curvature, elevation differences, and even the structure of tunnels—helping them better anticipate traffic and drive more safely.