How Do Shared Bikes Communicate? Inside the Smart Lock, GPS, and IoT Tech

1. Smart Bike Lock

The core hardware of a shared bike is the smart lock, which provides control and positioning functions. The lock integrates an embedded chip (communication module), a GPS module, and an IoT SIM card.

Manufacturers embed a SIM card with a unique number in the lock, enabling 2G/3G/4G communication with the cloud to report the bike’s location and lock status in real time.

2. Chip Power Supply

The communication module needs power, which is generated by a coil that spins when the rider pedals, converting kinetic energy into electrical energy to charge the battery.

3. QR‑Code Unlocking

Each bike carries a unique QR‑code. Users scan it with a mobile app, which connects via Bluetooth to the bike and sends the QR data to the cloud backend. The backend issues an unlock command to the bike’s communication module, opening the electromechanical lock.

4. Payment System

The cloud platform calculates ride duration from lock/unlock timestamps, determines the fee, and interfaces with WeChat or Alipay to complete the deduction.

5. Bluetooth Module

In areas with poor cellular coverage, the lock cannot receive cloud unlock commands. The app then delivers the unlock key to the bike via Bluetooth, which pairs with the lock and triggers the unlocking program, offering faster and more reliable access.

6. GPS Positioning

GPS modules report the bike’s location to the cloud. Apps such as Meituan Bike use the phone’s GPS for real‑time tracking, while Qingju Bike relies on the bike’s own GPS data. Signal issues in dense urban areas can cause inaccurate positioning.

7. IoT Technologies

Shared bikes employ three main IoT communication methods: 2G cellular modules, Bluetooth, and NB‑IoT. NB‑IoT is gaining traction due to its wide coverage, low power consumption, and ability to connect many devices.