Bluetooth Shipments Reach Three Million per Week

According to IMS Research, Bluetooth technology shipment figures now exceed three million units per week. It was only about three months ago that this technology passed the two million units per week milestone.

"Despite initial challenges in the face of public opinion, Bluetooth technology is gaining momentum throughout the world of mobile devices. As education, awareness, and solutions improve, Bluetooth technology will quickly find broad acceptance from vendors and users alike," said Alex Slawsby, IDC, senior analyst, Mobile Devices.

The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), the trade association responsible for the development of this short-range wireless networking technology, attributes increased Bluetooth technology adoption to improved interoperability in second- and third-generation products, as well as innovative new products.

"Bluetooth technology will capture new markets and stay ahead of emerging wireless technologies by continually adapting and improving the specification in areas of power, performance, security, and quality of service, among others," said Dr. Michael Foley, executive and technical director for the Bluetooth SIG. "Through cooperation and competition between our members, Bluetooth technology will deliver on the ever-increasing needs of the consumer electronics and IT markets."

Later this year, the Bluetooth SIG expects the latest version of the specification to date, Enhanced Data Rate (EDR), to be ratified by the organization's Board of Directors. EDR will speed file transfers and the Bluetooth SIG hopes it open doors for the technology in new markets, including imaging and high-fidelity audio. More information about Bluetooth EDR is available in this article

The SIG is currently outlining technology enhancements for the coming years, and plans to release its next roadmap during the last quarter of this year.