Signature Q3 2008

Connect | Photography by Paul Marko | Q3 ’08 It wasn’t long ago that the Global Language Monitor, which tracks the frequency of words in print and electronic media around the world, announced the top 10 English words of 2007. On the list, which included “hybrid,” “surge” and “bubble,” was the word “Bluetooth.” While delighted at this bit of cultural trivia, we aren’t surprised that the word epitomizing wireless connectivity made the list. After all, Bluetooth technology is enjoying unprecedented adoption rates and market penetration. The Bluetooth SIG’s membership has shipped more than 2 billion devices to date. It’s a growth rate that shows no sign of slowing, with one company – chip manufacturer CSR – shipping its 1 billionth Bluetooth wireless chip in April, and another – software giant Microsoft – announcing a move to make Bluetooth Core Specification Version 2.1 + EDR a requirement for all Microsoft OEMs by June 2009. (For more on Microsoft’s announcement, see page 6.) We are also closer than ever to seeing end products in the market utilizing Bluetooth low energy wireless technology. In this issue, Casio shares its vision for the watch market, which it expects will explode with applications that can run on a radio powered by a button-cell battery. Bluetooth low energy technology is also making inroads in the health device market. We take a look at the Bluetooth SIG’s Medical Devices Working Group, along with the Usability Expert Group, in our report on page 28. And is a Bluetooth low energy wireless gaming controller on the horizon? See our story on gaming starting on page 18. Meanwhile, Bluetooth high speed technology is a hot topic among developers. In this issue, we answer your questions about how the Bluetooth SIG is moving ahead with 802.11 and UWB (see page 5 for details). We also explore other emerging Bluetooth wireless technology markets with our stories on proximity marketing (pages 22 and 27), data storage (page 32) and even telekinetics (page 26). We believe that Bluetooth high speed and low energy technologies are tipping points for the Bluetooth SIG, and we expect tremendous growth and opportunities for our members in the future. Where do you see Bluetooth technology going in the next 10 years? Share your ideas with us by e-mailing signature@bluetooth.com. Growing Markets With the word “Bluetooth” now firmly established in the public’s mind, new enhancements such as low energy and high speed technologies position Bluetooth technology well for ongoing product development. Experience More Mike Foley Executive Director Bluetooth Special Interest Group Bluetooth Special Interest Group | 3

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Signature Q3 2008

Signature Q3 2008 Contents Connect: Growing Markets Inbox: Spread the Word Ask the SIG: The Fast Lane In the News Perspectives: Views From APAC Bluetooth Technology in Retrospect: Headset History Bluetooth Technology in Retrospect: Headset History Bluetooth Technology @ Play: Unplug Your Fun Bluetooth Technology Interactive: Wireless Tourism Checkout: Groovy Gadgets Bluetooth Wireless Explorer: Mind Games Bluetooth Technology 101: Ads You Like It Bluetooth Technology 501: Group Efforts Wacky Apps: What’s NXT? Get in the Game: If The Glove Fits ... Revolution: The Space Age

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