Bluetooth 4.0 finalized: low power mode & boosted range

Bluetooth 3.0 may still be a rarity on devices, but the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) aren’t letting that stop them from whipping ahead with the next spec in line. Bluetooth 4.0 has been finalized, and it delivers both a new low-energy mode suited to indecently frugal devices like watches, sensors and remotes, together with a boost in potential range. While the SIG expect most devices to stick with the regular 30 foot/10m range, Bluetooth 4.0 theoretically supports up to 200 feet and beyond.

That, they say, will help wireless sensor manufacturers build their mesh-style networks, and the fact that the specification allows for ultra-low-power hardware there’ll be less battery changing or charging too. Of course, we’ll have to wait a while to actually see devices using the new standard: Bluetooth v4.0 hardware isn’t expected to reach the market until late 2010 or early 2011.

Read more: slashgear.com