At the IFA 2024 event, much of the attention was focused on Intel’s unveiling of its latest Lunar Lake processors. However, the Bluetooth Special Interest Group made a major announcement that could have a wider impact. The group revealed the launch of Bluetooth 6.0, a new standard that will change how devices communicate.
Bluetooth 6.0 brings new precision feature
The standout feature of Bluetooth 6.0 is “Bluetooth Channel Sounding.” This new technology allows devices to determine the exact distance between one another. Essentially, it gives Bluetooth devices “true distance awareness.” With this upgrade, devices can now know exactly where other devices are and how far away they are in real time.
This leap in precision could make a big difference for apps that rely on location tracking. Applications such as “Find My” will benefit greatly, offering more accurate results when locating lost items. Bluetooth 6.0’s improvements could also enhance the effectiveness of Bluetooth trackers, making them far more reliable.
Centimetre-level accuracy for trackers
Joonsuk Kim, the executive vice president of System LSI Connectivity at Samsung Electronics, highlighted the potential of this new technology. Kim said Bluetooth Channel Sounding will “elevate the performance of ‘Find My’ applications by delivering centimetre-level accuracy.” This level of detail could significantly improve current tracking systems, allowing users to locate their devices more precisely than ever.
This feature could revolutionise everyday tasks like finding your keys, wallet, or even your phone with the help of Bluetooth-based tracking. The improvement in location accuracy means you can pinpoint a device within centimetres, reducing the frustration that sometimes comes with current tracking systems.
When will Bluetooth 6.0 devices be available?
Despite the excitement surrounding Bluetooth 6.0, there is still some uncertainty about when we can expect to see devices equipped with this technology. As the standard has only just been announced, the first Bluetooth 6.0-enabled products likely won’t hit the market for at least a year.
Bluetooth 6.0 holds immense promise for the future of precision tracking. Once it becomes widely available, it is sure to improve the accuracy and reliability of location-based applications. From finding lost gadgets to enhancing security systems, this new feature will likely become essential to our daily tech experience.
