The Future of Bluetooth

It is now apparent Bluetooth and similar wireless technologies are around to stay, and companies in the mobile environment (prominent Bluetooth applications) are continuing to research and design impressive applications for the wireless technology. Computers are now capable of connecting to the Internet via a Bluetooth network, build wireless networks, and connect almost any computer component wirelessly.

Bluetooth has a good future ahead because it meets a basic need of connectivity in close proximity, is the result of initiatives of 9 leading communications and computer industry vendors including companies such as Ericsson, 3-COM, Lucent, Intel, IBM, Nokia, Microsoft and Toshiba. Since the formation of the original group, more than 1,800 manufacturers have joined the initiative worldwide. Even as long ago as 2005, there were over 670 million Bluetooth enabled devices worldwide.

Automotive Industry

Possible automotive applications may include:

• voice recognition commands
• vehicle diagnosis
• Internet connection
• communication to external networks
• information and entertainment downloads
• taking notes and creating spreadsheets
• activating garage doors

Bluetooth Messaging

Companies in Singapore have joined forces to use Bluetooth in a social application, where customers of a dating service download the software to their phones. Once these personal details (such as the kind of person they'd like to meet) are entered on their phone, the waiting game begins. If a potential partner walks in the range of their Bluetooth device the phone will alert them with that persons details. The programs rates the person on a range from 1-5 in terms of compatibility. Once the user decides whether they want to meet their match, all that is left is to send a message or to introduce themselves without the aid of their mobile phone.

Mobile Commerce

It is mobile commerce that appears at this stage to have the largest potential for Bluetooth. Applications such as car parks, vending machines, service stations, entertainment venues and food outlets, all have the potential to be paid by using Bluetooth. Now that wireless security has improved, banks are the next link to allow the mobile commerce industry using Bluetooth to take off.

Portable Power Transfer

The initial reason Bluetooth was perceived to be useful was the elimination of wires. However, there is one wire that many may think will never be eliminated: the power lead. A company known as Splashpower Limited is working on a technology that enables a range of devices to be powered and recharged simply by resting them on the SplashPad - without any wires or contacts. This application of Bluetooth has obvious potential for any portable device that requires battery power, from mobile phones, to computers and music devices.