The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) has published the Bluetooth Core Specification version 6.0, the latest update since the release of version 5 in 2016. This new version introduces several features aimed at enhancing the performance and capabilities of Bluetooth technology.
One notable addition is centimeter-level tracking. This advancement improves location accuracy for “Find My” networks used by companies like Apple and Google, helping to accurately track lost items. It also enhances the security of digital lock systems, ensuring that only authorized users within a specific range can unlock secure areas.
Read more: The best portable monitors from Asus, Acer and others for working on the go
Bluetooth 6.0 includes several key features:
1. Bluetooth channel audio: This feature enables precise distance measurement between devices, enhances location services, and digital key access. It also enhances the security of digital key solutions.
2. Filter ads based on decisions: Devices often broadcast small messages, such as advertisements, to signal their presence. With Bluetooth LE Extended Advertising, these messages can be split into multiple parts, some sent on the main channel and others on additional channels. Decision-based advertising filtering allows devices to evaluate whether the main channel content is relevant, optimizing the screening process and saving battery life.
Read more: iOS 18 Release: Only iPhone Users in India Will Get Apple’s Major Update
3. Smarter Bluetooth scanning: Bluetooth 6.0 introduces more efficient scanning through decision-based advertisement filtering. This enhancement improves pairing speed and reliability by allowing devices to determine whether additional scanning is required based on nearby hardware discovery.
4. Isochronous Adaptive Layer (ISOAL): This update reduces latency and improves data transmission. It benefits devices like headphones and smartwatches by allowing more data to be transmitted in smaller packets.
Currently, no devices have been announced that support Bluetooth 6.0, and the release date is still uncertain. However, the first products with this new standard could appear next year. Additionally, Bluetooth 6.0 offers advertiser monitoring, which alerts devices when items of interest enter or leave range to improve the user experience and reduce power consumption.
