Why It Matters
Wireless Updates: The Bluetooth 5 specifications were released in 2016, introducing features primarily designed for emerging Internet of Things devices. Subsequent updates were published in 2019, 2021, and 2023. Now, the time has come for a completely new version of this ubiquitous wireless connection standard.
The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) has just released the core specifications for the latest version of its namesake wireless technology. According to the organization, Bluetooth Core Specification version 6.0 introduces new functionality and enhancements to existing features. However, the standout feature of this release appears to be a new option called Bluetooth Channel Sounding.
The Bluetooth SIG claims that Channel Sounding brings “true” distance awareness to Bluetooth-compatible devices, a potentially transformative innovation with significant benefits for the wireless ecosystem. Supported by a “robust” security layer, the consortium states that Channel Sounding will greatly enhance the user experience for “Find My” solutions, allowing users to pinpoint the exact location of accessories with high accuracy.
Channel Sounding can achieve centimeter-level precision over considerable distances. Moreover, the technology ensures that only authorized users can unlock doors or access secure areas in buildings equipped with wireless security systems. The Bluetooth SIG also highlights that developers will find Channel Sounding valuable, as its precise location awareness opens up numerous opportunities for creating new applications.
The remaining features of the Bluetooth 6.0 standard offer welcome improvements in data packet transmission and delivery efficiency. With Decision-Based Advertising Filtering, the Bluetooth Low Energy Extended Advertising feature will enhance scanning efficiency by reducing the time spent scanning secondary channels.
Additionally, the Monitoring Advertisers feature improves energy efficiency when the host is unable to determine if a device is still within range. The Isochronous Adaptation Layer “makes it possible for larger data frames to be transmitted in smaller link-layer packets,” with a new framing mode that should reduce latency and increase reliability in sensitive applications such as audio peripherals.
The Bluetooth association highlights its ability to regularly update and introduce new features and improvements to the Bluetooth standard. However, what the organization doesn’t address is the time it takes for these advancements to appear in devices and accessories that consumers can actually purchase. So, while the updates are promising, it may take a few years before Bluetooth 6.0 features are widely available in consumer products. Keep your expectations in check for now.
