Bluetooth 3.0 Speeds Transfers to 24 Mbps

• By David Nagel
• 04/22/09

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The Bluetooth SIG has formally adopted the Bluetooth Core Specification Version 3.0 High Speed, also known as Bluetooth 3.0.

The new version is built on the current Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR specification and continues to include that version's security and pairing features. But, thanks to the addition of the 802.11 Protocol Adaptation Layer, the new version bumps data transfer speeds to 24 Mbps, up from 2.1 Mbps in the 2.1 + EDR specification.

Michael Foley, executive director of the Bluetooth SIG, likened the new specification unto the fictional character Ricky Bobby from the movie Talladega Nights, saying in a prepared statement, "[T]his latest version was ‘born to go fast.' Utilizing the 802.11 radio was a natural choice as it provides efficiencies for both our members and consumers--members get more function out of the two radios they are already including in devices, and consumers with Bluetooth 3.0 HS products will get faster exchange of information without changing how they connect. We are excited to expand the possibilities of the PAN.” ("PAN" refers to the concept of the "personal area network.")

In addition, Bluetooth 3.0 adds integrated power control, which, according to the SIG, is designed to provide increased power savings for mobile devices using the new spec.

The Bluetooth SIG said wireless chip manufacturers are working on getting hardware out to device manufacturers already. Consumer end products incorporating Bluetooth 3.0 are expected to be on the market in nine to 12 months. Further information about the specification can be found here.