Tech News Roundup: Bluetooth News
It’s been a big couple of weeks for Bluetooth.
It’s undeniable: Bluetooth technology is rapidly changing the way the world communicates, designs and does business.
Earlier this year, a market research report published by Technavio revealed that the global Bluetooth beacon device market is expected to grow at a CAGR of nearly 223% by 2020 — that’s a pretty huge deal for companies and users making big investments into Bluetooth technology. The study shows that Bluetooth beacon manufacturers aren’t just building new devices at a rapid pace, but also building out the software to go with it. Here are some more recent news tidbits from the Bluetooth universe:
Bluetooth 5 on the Horizon
June 16 — Bluetooth SIG announced Bluetooth 5, which is primarily designed to improve usage with Internet of Things (IoT) devices. The new specs are expected to deliver as much as four times the range of Bluetooth 4.2, with twice the speed and eight times the data broadcasting capability. It’s slated to be out in late 2016 or early 2017.
New Kindle Built with Bluetooth Technology
June 22 — Amazon’s new $80 Kindle e-reader is the first Kindle to include Bluetooth integration. The technology is designed to help visually impaired readers to consume on-screen content easier than before. Previously, visually impaired users relied on Amazon’s VoiceView technology.
Bluetooth Update to Windows 10 Mobile Stack
June 26 — Bluetooth SIG certified a small update to the Windows 10 Mobile Bluetooth Stack. It includes an update to the the Audio/Video Remote Control Profile (AVRCP) which will allow users more controls for searching and playing media.
Bluetooth Announces Imagine Blue Awards
June 28 — Bluetooth SIG announced Imagine Blue, a new version of its awards offering cash prices to startups implementing Bluetooth into their products. The most impressive new startups will receive $10,000 to develop their ideas. The first Imagine Blue awards will take place at the Bluetooth World event in California next March.
New Antenna Combines Bluetooth, GPS, Wi-Fi and 4G
June 28 — Sony and Smart Antennas Technology (SAT) say they have designed a new laptop antenna which will combine Bluetooth with GPS, Wi-Fi and 4G LTE. The new unit is designed to boost download speeds, save laptop space and improve battery life. SAT is set to develop the technology, while Sony will build out the product.
Bose Unveils Bluetooth Speaker Kids Can Build
June 29 — Bose announced a new STEM-learning tool: a Bluetooth speaker that kids can build themselves. It’s designed as a hands-on way for kids to learn physical technology. The BOSEbuild Speaker Cube is customizable and costs $149. Check it out below:
STM Announces Low-Energy Wireless System-on-Chip
June 30 — STMicroelectronics announced the invention of its first Bluetooth Low Energy wireless System-on-Chip. It’s designed to improve the energy efficiency and radio-connection reliability of a huge variety of IoT devices, including wearables and medical monitors.
And, just for fun, this list of cool Bluetooth gadgets to come, and this sweet Star Trek Bluetooth Communicator.
