About
BeeScales.io is a comprehensive beehive monitoring solution developed by Vermis d.o.o. (Slovenia) that combines precision IoT hardware with cloud-connected software. The physical scales are only 15 mm tall and fit under AŽ or Langstroth hive types, supporting monitoring of one or two colonies from a single unit. Connectivity options include SIM card (NB-IoT/G4) for cellular data transmission or a SIM-free variant that eliminates recurring subscription costs. Weight readings are taken every 5 minutes and streamed to both a mobile application and a web portal, giving beekeepers real-time insight into colony development, nectar flow, and hive health. When a sudden weight drop is detected, the system automatically triggers a swarm alarm via email and push notification, enabling keepers to act before losing a swarm. An integrated motion sensor doubles as an anti-theft guard: any unexpected movement sends an instant GPS-accurate location alert to the owner. Optional Bluetooth temperature sensors can be placed inside the hive to track internal conditions. Data can be shared with other users and even displayed on a TV or website. The product line ranges from the entry-level Beescales Compact (€348.99) to two-colony NB-IoT models (up to €599), with Bluetooth sensors available separately. It is primarily aimed at semi-professional and commercial beekeepers who manage multiple apiaries.
Key Features
- Real-Time Weight Monitoring: Scales take weight measurements every 5 minutes and sync data to the mobile app and web portal, giving beekeepers continuous visibility into colony activity and nectar flow.
- Automatic Swarm Detection: The system detects sudden weight changes characteristic of a swarm event and immediately sends an email and in-app alarm so beekeepers can respond before losing the colony.
- GPS Anti-Theft Alarm: A built-in motion sensor monitors unexpected scale movement. If tampering is detected, an alert with the precise GPS location is sent to the beekeeper instantly.
- Bluetooth Temperature Sensors: Optional Bluetooth sensors measure temperature (and optionally humidity/pressure) inside or around the hive, complementing weight data with environmental readings.
- Mobile App & Web Portal: A dedicated mobile application and web portal provide dashboards, historical charts, alarm management, data sharing with other users, and TV/website display integrations.
Use Cases
- Remote apiary management: beekeepers monitor hive weight and health from home without needing to physically visit each site daily.
- Swarm prevention response: instant swarm detection alarms allow beekeepers to arrive at the hive quickly and capture the swarm before it is lost.
- Theft and vandalism protection: GPS and motion-sensor alarms help protect valuable hive equipment placed in remote or unattended locations.
- Nectar flow tracking: continuous weight data reveals peak nectar flow periods, helping beekeepers time honey extraction optimally.
- Multi-apiary data sharing: beekeepers managing large operations can share hive data with assistants or partners through the web portal for coordinated management.
Pros
- Ultra-Slim Hardware Design: At only 15 mm tall, the scales fit seamlessly under any hive without disturbing the colony or requiring stand modifications.
- No-SIM Option Available: A SIM-free model eliminates recurring cellular subscription fees, reducing long-term operating costs for beekeepers with local connectivity.
- All-in-One Monitoring: Combines weight, temperature, GPS, and motion sensing in a single device, removing the need for separate monitoring tools.
- Multi-Colony Support: Single units can monitor up to two colonies simultaneously, making it cost-effective for beekeepers managing multiple hives.
Cons
- High Upfront Cost: Entry price starts at €348.99 per unit, which may be prohibitive for hobbyists with only one or two hives.
- Cellular Dependency: The standard SIM-card models require cellular network coverage at the apiary location; remote areas with poor NB-IoT coverage may experience connectivity issues.
- Limited to Beekeeping Niche: The product is purpose-built for beekeeping and has no general-purpose monitoring applications, limiting its appeal to a narrow audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the scale require a SIM card subscription?
Standard models include a SIM card for NB-IoT cellular connectivity. A newer SIM-free variant is also available that eliminates annual connectivity costs by using alternative local connectivity methods.
How often does the scale record and transmit weight data?
The scale takes a weight measurement every 5 minutes and transmits it to both the mobile app and the web portal in near real-time.
How does swarm detection work?
The scale continuously monitors hive weight. When it detects a significant, sudden drop in weight — typical of a swarm departing — it triggers an alarm sent via email and push notification to the registered beekeeper.
Can I monitor more than one hive with a single device?
Yes. The G4 NB-IoT two-colony model supports two hives simultaneously, with both colonies' data visible in the same app and portal.
What hive types are compatible with BeeScales.io?
The scales are compatible with both AŽ (Alberti-Žnideršič) hives common in Central Europe and standard Langstroth (nakladni) hive designs.
