Bluetooth is a short-range wireless communication technology that enables devices to exchange data over short distances without using cables. It operates on the 2.4 GHz radio frequency band and is designed for low-power, low-cost connectivity between devices such as smartphones, laptops, headphones, wearables, and IoT sensors.
How It Works
Bluetooth creates a small wireless network known as a piconet, where one device acts as the master and others as slaves. It uses frequency hopping to minimise interference and maintain stable connections even in crowded wireless environments. The range typically extends up to 10 metres for standard devices, but newer versions can reach over 100 metres with Bluetooth 5.0 and beyond.
Business Relevance
In enterprises, Bluetooth plays a growing role beyond consumer gadgets. It powers asset tracking, wireless conferencing equipment, access control systems, and IoT deployments in offices, factories, and hospitals. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) has expanded its applications into areas like smart buildings, healthcare monitoring, and retail beacons that enhance user experience and operational efficiency.
Evolution
Since its launch in the late 1990s, Bluetooth has evolved significantly:
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Bluetooth Classic: Focused on continuous data transfer for audio and file exchange.
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Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE): Designed for IoT and sensor-based applications that require minimal power.
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Bluetooth 5.x: Offers greater range, speed, and broadcast capacity for enterprise-grade connectivity.
Considerations
Despite its ubiquity, Bluetooth has limitations in bandwidth and range compared to Wi-Fi. Security remains an ongoing concern, as vulnerabilities like BlueBorne have shown. Regular firmware updates and pairing security measures help mitigate risks.
