Bluetooth technology allows cell phones, computers and other electronic devices to easily and quickly connect and exchange information through a short-range wireless connection. Bluetooth allows people to coordinate mobile and fixed computer devices. Bluetooth devices can operate almost anywhere, which makes them extremely helpful and convenient, especially for people on-the-go.
Computer keyboards, printers and mice can function wirelessly using Bluetooth, and video games consoles like Nintendo's Wii also use Bluetooth to control wireless game controllers.
Similar to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth allows devices to use higher bandwidth in proximity to one another than Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi also requires more set-up than user-friendly Bluetooth devices. While some computers and devices need adapters to become Bluetooth-capable, many electronic devices now come equipped with internal built-in Bluetooth technology.
In the future, it is anticipated that Bluetooth devices will be more widespread and will allow higher quality data transfers as the technology advances.
Bluetooth devices work on a system much like a radio transmitter. Each Bluetooth device contains a transceiver microchip that communicates with other Bluetooth devices using a strong transmission.
Depending on the strength of the transmission, Bluetooth devices do not have to be within line sight of one another and can even be in other rooms and at somewhat considerable distances and still be functional.
However, not all devices can use Bluetooth technology. Devices must be compatible with certain Bluetooth profiles and settings in order to utilize the technology.
Learn more about how Bluetooth devices work and which devices can take advantage of Bluetooth technology.
Bluetooth devices create a hands-free world for many people. Instead of holding a cell phone to your ear while shuffling through files, you can now use a Bluetooth headset that communicates wirelessly with your cell phone, which may be stowed in your purse or briefcase.
PCs can wirelessly network with one another using Bluetooth. Printers, mice and keyboards can function without any wires or connections using Bluetooth technology. Bluetooth devices can even be used in some cases where infrared was necessary in the past.
New technologies are also made possible by Bluetooth. Gaming systems, like Nintendo's Wii and Sony's PlayStation 3, have been revolutionized with wireless controls that use Bluetooth technology. The controls communicate with a receiver a short distance away and allow freedom of movement for game players.
Learn more about the benefits of Bluetooth and the advances that Bluetooth technology has made possible.
Bluetooth devices all have security elements that make it difficult to eavesdrop or steal information. Based on an algorithm, a master key and an initialization key are assigned to Bluetooth-enabled devices. Encryption is also used to further ensure that Bluetooth devices are secure and that everything possible is done in the way of privacy protection.
However, no system is perfect. In the past, security and privacy concerns have been raised concerning Bluetooth devices and the loss of personal and private data. Learn more about the standards that Bluetooth implements on its devices, as well as laws surrounding Bluetooth's use.
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