Bluetooth^® Smart is the intelligent, power-friendly version of Bluetooth wireless technology. While the power-efficiency of Bluetooth Smart makes it perfect for devices needing to run off a tiny battery for long periods, the magic of Bluetooth Smart is its ability to work with an application on the smartphone or tablet you already own. Bluetooth Smart makes it easy for developers and OEMs to create solutions that will work with the billions of Bluetooth enabled products already in the market today. Learn more about the technology behind Bluetooth Smart.

Connecting the Internet of Things

First talked about more than 15 years ago, the Internet of Things (IoT) theorized objects and people would connect wirelessly. Classic Bluetooth provided the means for device communication and manufacturers built hub devices like PCs, smartphones, cars and tablets to take advantage of these connections. Now, because of Bluetooth Smart, the world is exploding with an incredible array of devices connecting to these hubs. A projected 30 billion devices will enter into the IoT ecosystem by 2020 according to ABI Research . Analyst firms all over the world recognize Bluetooth Smart as a key enabler in the Internet of Things.

What it Means to You

For consumers, it comes down to the Internet of Your Things. You wake up and go for a run with a heart rate monitor that speaks directly to your smart watch. You brush your teeth with a sensor toothbrush while listening to music through your showerhead. You keep your back straight and protect your computer with sensors at your desk. You watch your kids play basketball with a "smart" ball and shoes. You unlock your doors, turn on the lights and run your TV with your smartphone. These wirelessly connected devices are making your life better and less hectic while allowing you to benefit from the convenience, empowerment and freedom of Bluetooth Smart technology.

Powering New Verticals

Bluetooth technology gained an early foothold in several industries like consumer electronics, PC peripherals and automotive. With the advent of Bluetooth Smart, many sports and fitness companies rushed to integrate the new technology because of its power efficiency and ability to connect to smartphone apps—it was the perfect fit for a wide range of devices from heart-rate monitors to cycling computers. Now Bluetooth Smart technology is powering many verticals from wireless medical devices and home automation to retail and wearables. ABI Research projects Bluetooth technology will experience the highest growth in these markets in the next five years.  

Developing with Bluetooth Smart

Bluetooth Smart is an application-friendly technology supported by every major operating system. The technology costs less and offers flexible development architecture for creating applications to bring everyday objects like heart-rate monitors, toothbrushes, and shoes into the connected world and have them communicate with applications that reside on the Bluetooth Smart compatible smartphones, tablets, or similar devices those consumers already own. This means Bluetooth Smart developers are limited only by their imagination.

(Credit: IVT)