New Bluetooth 6.0 Brings Enhanced Connectivity, Security, and Low-Powered Networks

New Delhi, 6th November 2024: The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) releases updates to Bluetooth specifications every year, providing wireless connectivity for gadgets such as smartphones, earbuds, smart TVs, and other devices. The new version, Bluetooth 6.0, has been released and will replace Bluetooth 5.4.

With the new version, the SIG has not only added new features but also addressed some long-standing issues associated with Bluetooth. The features available in Bluetooth 6.0 are expected to be a game changer in terms of wireless connectivity.

One key addition is a feature called Channel Sounding, which enhances low-powered networks for wireless connectivity. Devices with Bluetooth 6.0 can now detect the presence and direction of other Bluetooth 6.0 devices with greater accuracy. Additionally, the risk of security breaches is significantly reduced.

This feature will also enable companies to launch next-generation tracking devices, such as AirTags, that can be easily tracked and identified from a phone or linked device. Furthermore, Bluetooth 6.0 will enhance home automation solutions.

Regarding its advertising feature, Bluetooth 6.0 introduces decision-based advertising, which automatically scans secondary devices and delivers content to the primary device. This not only reduces power consumption but also improves connectivity. Additionally, Bluetooth 6.0 can monitor and filter out duplicate data.

Bluetooth 6.0 also allows large data transfers in smaller, link-layered packets. This feature, known as the Isochronous Adaptation Layer (ISOAL) enhancement, ensures low latency in audio products. Furthermore, Bluetooth 6.0 includes a Frame Space Update, improving the connectivity of devices such as earbuds and fitness trackers.

Bluetooth 6.0 will be available in smartphones launched with Qualcomm’s powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. However, recently released smartphones like the OnePlus 13 and iQOO 13, which feature these chipsets, still come with Bluetooth 5.4. Therefore, it is expected that upcoming smartphones will feature Bluetooth 6.0. Apple’s latest iPhone 16 series supports Bluetooth 5.3, and it is likely that Bluetooth 6.0 will be included in the iPhone 17 series.