Signature - Q1, 2008 - (Page 11) Ask the SIG | Q1 ’08 What’s the story behind the Bluetooth Core Specification Version 2.1 + EDR? The latest version of the core specification was developed by members of the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. in response to end-user feedback and member requests for new features and functions. Work on the new specification commenced at the 2005 All Hands Meeting in Lisbon, Portugal, and continued through a variety of Working Group meetings and technical reviews until the Bluetooth SIG Board of Directors unanimously approved the specification for release in August 2007. How is version 2.1 + EDR different from earlier versions? One of the most important new features is secure simple pairing, which makes pairing Bluetooth enabled devices faster and easier. With the new core specification, users can securely pair devices in 30 seconds or less, without entering a PIN code and without sacrificing security. It’s a three-step process: Identify the device to be connected, confirm your selection and begin your task. Version 2.1 + EDR also enables devices that use the short-range technology known as near field communication (NFC) to connect quickly and easily. In this type of pairing scenario, users simply touch the products together to create the Bluetooth wireless connection. Additionally, security is enhanced in the new specification, which is designed to protect against both passive and active (man-in-the-middle) eavesdropping. For pairings that require user interaction, version 2.1 + EDR makes use of a simple six-digit passkey, which is stronger than a random 16-digit alphanumeric PIN. The new version continues to use the pairing algorithm that was included in Bluetooth Core Specification Version 2.0 + EDR and other earlier versions. Finally, the new specification greatly reduces power consumption through a feature called “Sniff Subrating,” which increases battery life by up to five times in products like mice, keyboards, watches, home sensor networks and medical devices. This is a critical step toward ultra low power Bluetooth technology. Why should my company qualify to the new Bluetooth technology core specification? FAST, EASY CONNECTION v2.1 + EDR will make pairing devices as easy as this: 1. Turn on your Headset. 2. Select the “Add Bluetooth device” option on your phone. 3. Your phone and headset connect automatically. IMPROVED SECURITY For pairing scenarios that require user interaction, eavesdropper protection makes a sixdigit passkey stronger than a 16-digit PIN code. Improved security also offers protection that eliminates the chance an undetected “middle man” can intercept information. LOWER POWER CONSUMPTION Reduced power consumption means longer battery life in devices like mice and keyboards. The new Bluetooth Core Specification Version 2.1 + EDR can increase battery life by up to five times. User experience at a glance Make the Move The Bluetooth Core Specification Version 2.1 + EDR enhances the user experience with secure simple pairing and reduced power consumption. It also enables near field communication (NFC) pairing and sets the stage for both high speed and ultra low power Bluetooth technology. Now’s the The four core enhancements just outlined dramatically improve the end-user experience. As more products are qualified to the new specification, we should see continued improvements in user satisfaction and an increase in consumer adoption, both of which are critical to the future of Bluetooth technology. How can I get involved in developing the next version? A number of companies took part in the development of version 2.1 + EDR, and time to qualify to the new core specification. they will likely be the first to have products on the market that take advantage of the improvements. Bluetooth SIG members are encouraged to join Working Experience More Groups to help set the direction of the technology. Doing so gives them firstmover advantage and allows them to design their future products accordingly. Get involved now in ongoing development of the Bluetooth Core Specification. You can help advance high speed Bluetooth technology, which will synchronize large data volumes and create the ability to Have a question for the Bluetooth SIG? stream video content, and ultra low power Bluetooth Want to share an answer to a Frequently technology, which will bring Bluetooth wireless capabiliAsked Question from your customers? ties to smaller devices like sensors and watches. E-mail us at signature@bluetooth.com. Bluetooth Special Interest Group | 11
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