We haven’t been discussing Internet of Things lately because we’re all too busy with rumors leaks upcoming smartphones that are set to be unveiled at the upcoming Mobile World Congress. In less than two weeks, Barcelona will be the launching pad for some of 2016’s flagship phones like the Samsung Galaxy S7 and LG G5. We’re just curious to know if, when, and how these new mobile devices will be integrated with smart home technology. Internet of Things (IoT) is expected to advance this year and we believe that phones will have a big role in the system.
Big companies have started to prepare for this development. Wi-Fi Alliance introduced Wi-Fi Halow for Internet of Things earlier in January. Samsung will be expanding the system by releasing a better smart TV line up while Google’s Brillo is expected to bring Android deeper into our homes. Before 2015 ended, the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) promised longer range and faster speed in connectivity for this year.
To further improve the technology, Bluetooth SIG has just introduced a new way to connect devices to the Internet of Things. A new architecture is being set in place that is expected to allow devs to create gateways for Bluetooth products. This idea is something imminent since Bluetooth is one of the most popular and reliable wireless technology standards today. It’s being used in short distances to exchange data and signal to control various functions.
With this Bluetooth Internet gateway architecture and toolkit, developers can work on a system that will give them ability to manage Bluetooth sensors that are ideally fixed. These devices can then be controlled and monitored from a remote location.
More OEMs and developers can now take advantage of Bluetooth-and-cloud connection sans a mobile device. Even without a tablet or a smartphone, smart products at home should be able to work. While WiFi should be enough to connect gadgets at home and be accessible from a remote location, wireless network is not always reliable. Remember the Nest Thermostat that stopped working? A mysterious software bug caused battery drain which then left the people at home cold one night. Other Nest devices went offline too. Truth is, any system that depends on a special software or WiFi connection is prone to errors.
Bluetooth connectivity can be an alternative but the Bluetooth Special Interest Group has just started to respond to the needs and demands of the industry. Hopefully, this Bluetooth Internet gateway architecture will create a more effective gateway functionality that will keep smart devices always connected.
If you’re a developer, feel free to download the Bluetooth Internet Gateway Smart Starter Kit. Let us know once you’re able to create new Internet gateways for Bluetooth sensors.
SOURCE: Bluetooth SIG
smart smarter kit? is that really what they are naming it?