# Ambient Backscatter Communications: A Contemporary Survey

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/1712.04804 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/1712.04804/

## Key facts

- Cited by 4 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 13 Dec 2017.

## Built on by (most cited first, 4 of 4)

- [When Machine Learning Meets Spectrum Sharing Security: Methodologies and Challenges](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2201.04677/) (2022)
- [Learning on Bandwidth Constrained Multi-Source Data with MIMO-inspired DPP MAP Inference](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2306.02497/) (2023)
- [Dynamic Spectrum Access for Ambient Backscatter Communication-assisted D2D Systems with Quantum Reinforcement Learning](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2410.17971/) (2024)
- [AI-Empowered UAV-Assisted Backscatter Localization and ISAC for Zero-Energy IoT: A Comprehensive Survey](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2606.23125/) (2026)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Recently, ambient backscatter communications has been introduced as a cutting-edge technology which enables smart devices to communicate by utilizing ambient radio frequency (RF) signals without requiring active RF transmission. This technology is especially effective in addressing communication and energy efficiency problems for low-power communications systems such as sensor networks. It is expected to realize numerous Internet-of-Things (IoT) applications. Therefore, this paper aims to provide a contemporary and comprehensive literature review on fundamentals, applications, challenges, and research efforts/progress of ambient backscatter communications. In particular, we first present fundamentals of backscatter communications and briefly review bistatic backscatter communications systems. Then, the general architecture, advantages, and solutions to address existing issues and limitations of ambient backscatter communications systems are discussed. Additionally, emerging applications of ambient backscatter communications are highlighted. Finally, we outline some open issues and future research directions.