Bluetooth Smart gets smarter, readies for the IoT
The Bluetooth SIG has published a new version of the wireless peripheral specification which, it claims, will enhance the standard's support for the low power gadgets enabling the Internet of Things (IoT).
The update is the first major release since late 2010, when Bluetooth 4.0 (also known as Bluetooth Smart Ready and Bluetooth Smart) was introduced.
Bluetooth 4.1 will allow devices to serve as both hub and peripheral devices, and pave the way for them to directly connect to the internet.
In other words, Bluetooth 4.1 devices will be able to collate data from sensors like heart monitors and temperature gauges, then report back to a smartphone with their findings.
In turn, those phones could be used as sensors that other devices can communicate with and pull data from.
"Bluetooth 4.1 will enable a truly seamless connected experience for the consumer," said Paul Williamson, director of low power wireless at CSR. "It will also give developers real flexibility to create more intelligent devices."
