Bluetooth v3.0 gets the nod

Bluetooth v3.0 features 802.11 a/b/g AMP (Alternative MAC and PHY), which allows Bluetooth to conduct high speed file transfer in co-operation with IEEE802.11 radios. When a Bluetooth device needs to transfer a large file, AMP has the ability to wake up the radio, bringing data transfer rates of up to 24Mbit/s over short distances. Michael Foley (pictured), executive director of the Bluetooth SIG, said: "Using the 802.11 radio was a natural choice as it provides efficiencies for both our members and consumers – members get more function out of the two radios they are already including in devices, and consumers with Bluetooth v3.0 HS products will get faster exchange of information without changing how they connect. We are excited to expand the possibilities of the personal area network." * Meanwhile, CSR has announced that its Synergy wireless systems software is one of the first products to be qualified to Bluetooth v3.0.