The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), the trade association that oversees Bluetooth technology, has announced a new specification development project to define the operation of Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) in additional unlicenced mid-band spectrum, including the 6 GHz frequency band.
Over 5bn products with Bluetooth technology ship every year, making it one of the most widely deployed wireless standards in the world. Its vast adoption and success are mainly thanks to the continual development of the technology in key areas, including higher data throughput, lower latency, and greater positioning accuracy. The new spectrum expansion project will help ensure that these Bluetooth performance enhancements can continue well into the future.
“Over the last 20 years, Bluetooth technology has made our lives more productive, safer, healthier, and joyful,” said Mark Powell, CEO of the Bluetooth SIG. “The Bluetooth SIG community is constantly evolving the technology to meet ever expanding market demands for wireless communications. Expanding into the 6 GHz spectrum band will ensure the community can continue to make the enhancements necessary to pave the way for the next 20 years of Bluetooth innovation.”
Kevin Robinson, president and CEO of Wi-Fi Alliance added: “The global allocation of additional spectrum for unlicenced use is vital to ensuring that wireless technologies can continue to meet growing connectivity demands. Designating 6 GHz for unlicenced use creates a valuable spectrum resource that is recognised globally for its ability to bring tremendous socioeconomic benefits. Wi-Fi Alliance looks forward to collaborating with the Bluetooth SIG to ensure our successful co-existence in the band.”