The newest version of the Bluetooth Core Specification - 2.1+EDR - was ratified by the Bluetooth SIG on July 31st 2007. This specification will deliver greater simplicity of use, combined with lower power consumption and enhanced security. 2.1 compatible products (which should reach the market by Christmas 2007) will be backward compatible with older Bluetooth devices (back to version 1.1).
Key features of Bluetooth 2.1+EDR are:
Secure Simple Pairing
Allow users to pair much more simply and quickly (greatly reducing the number of operations/keystrokes required) by means of simple techniques such as confirming that the same 6-digit number is displayed on the devices to be paired. At the same time, security against eavesdropping and 'man-in-the-middle' attacks is enhanced. With Secure Simple Pairing, every Bluetooth device will by default have to use the full encryption capability of Bluetooth - greatly improving protection.
Up to 5x longer battery life
A new feature called 'sniff subrating' increases the battery life of devices that sleep for long periods. Currently devices wake periodically to 'sniff' for Bluetooth activity and power up if it is detected. However, in many cases devices are often inactive for long periods. Take the example of a wireless mouse or keyboard HID device - it might be used during the working day and then left idle overnight. Sniff subrating increases the periods between sniffs, thus lowering standby power consumption by as much as five times or more.
Extended Inquiry Response
This feature provides detailed information quickly, during the inquiry procedure to allow better filtering of devices before connection. Extended information includes a device's name, list of services supported, time of day, and pairing information.
An option for the future: 'touch to pair'
One further forthcoming advance for Bluetooth is an optional part of the 2.1 specification which paves the way for the complementary short-range wireless standard NFC (Near Field Communication). NFC enables Bluetooth connection by brushing two devices together or bringing them within a few centimetres of each other. Bluetooth devices will be able to recognise that pairing is requested and simply ask for confirmation. This makes it very simple to connect with devices that might only be used from time to time such as transferring photos from your phone to a colour printer by touching and clicking.
These links provide you with some additional information:
- CSR's press release announcing its support for Bluetooth 2.1
- Introduction to Bluetooth 2.1+EDR by the Bluetooth SIG
Considering design-in?
CSR is leading the development of Bluetooth and has qualified the first Bluetooth 2.1 product. We are very interested to talk with companies considering 2.1 applications. Please do not hesitate to contact your local CSR office.