The latest leap in Bluetooth technology could make locating lost gadgets a breeze. On Tuesday, the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) unveiled Bluetooth 6.0, and it’s packing some exciting new features that could take tracking tech to the next level. This new update promises to enhance Find My networks from big names like Apple, Google, and Tile with a cool new tool for pinpoint accuracy.
Bluetooth is the magic that makes our wireless devices talk to each other. The Bluetooth SIG, the team that keeps this tech running smoothly, regularly rolls out updates with new tricks. The last major refresh came in 2016, so it’s been a while.
Enter Bluetooth 6.0 with its shiny new feature: Channel Sounding. This innovation allows devices to measure the distance between them with “centimeter-level accuracy.” How does it work? It sends out radio signals at various frequencies between two devices—think your iPhone and your AirTag—using phase-based ranging. This method helps calculate just how far apart they are, making it super easy to track devices precisely.
Channel Sounding also aims to beef up security for digital keys, like those used to unlock your car or hotel room. With improved accuracy, developers can set up digital keys to work only when they’re within a very specific range. This could help fend off man-in-the-middle attacks, where someone intercepts your communication and potentially gains access to your vehicle or other secure spots.
The Bluetooth SIG points out that Channel Sounding could also enhance the functionality of various Bluetooth devices. For instance, your Bluetooth mouse, keyboard, or game controller might automatically switch between active and inactive states depending on its distance from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop.
While it might take some time before we see Bluetooth 6.0 show up in our devices, it’s clear that this update could make finding and managing our wireless tech a whole lot easier.
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