Talk about confused tech-naming conventions. CSR first introduced the world to their leaner and meaner Bluetooth standard as Wibree. Then CSR debuted a new dual-mode Bluetooth chip with Ultra Low Power Bluetooth (ULP Bluetooth). Now, CSR has again changed their new Bluetooth standard’s designation from ULP Bluetooth to Bluetooth Low Energy.
The Bluetooth Low Energy technology was debuted at a San Francisco meeting of the Bluetooth SIG Medical Working Group using the dual-mode BlueCore7 Bluetooth chip that supports both the current Bluetooth 2.1 standard as well as the next-generation Bluetooth Low Energy. CSR demonstrated wireless communication between medical equipment and a mobile phone modified with the BlueCore7 Bluetooth Low Energy chip.
By streamlining the data transmission process, Bluetooth Low Energy achieves up to 50 times faster data speeds while consuming less power. Bluetooth Low Energy uses transmits on just 3 frequencies, compared to Bluetooth 2.1’s 32-frequency spectrum. That means Bluetooth Low Energy devices could theoretically boast stand-by times measures in years, rather than days or weeks.
CSR is looking to get Bluetooth Low Energy ratified and adopted in Q1 2009. We’re hoping to see handsets and accessories sporting the new dual-mode BlueCore7 chip soon afterwards.