Bluetooth SIG to Standardize Nokia’s “Wibree” Technology

Press Release - June 13, 2007

The Bluetooth Special Interest Group announced yesterday that it will develop Nokia’s ultra-low power “Wibree” technology as the next version of Bluetooth, a short-range wireless transmission standard used in many laptops and cell phones.

Nokia’s energy-efficient wireless technology should further speed up the deployment and acceptance of Bluetooth, the trade group said in a statement. Wibree is expected to be used in watches, small toys, and even medical equipment like heart monitors, where bulky batteries are impossible or impractical.

“Our members have been asking for an ultra-low power Bluetooth solution. With Nokia’s innovative development and contribution to the Bluetooth specification with Wibree, we will be able to deliver this in approximately a year,” according to Bluetooth SIG director, Michael Foley, who expects products to begin appearing shortly after the new standard is finalized.

Devices with Wibree chips will not be compatible with existing Bluetooth standards, but future Bluetooth-equipped products will likely come with an option to support the technology.