At the CES, Broadcom has demonstrated a working implementation of next generation Bluetooth, featuring alternative MAC and PHY (AMP) technology that enables data rates of up to 24 Mbps and a significant increase in range by using other wireless radio technologies, such as 802.11, as its transport medium.
Broadcom’s CES demonstration involved their BCM4325 single-chip Bluetooth + Wi-Fi combo device, as well as modules that integrate the BCM2046 single-chip Bluetooth solution and BCM4312 single-chip Wi-Fi device. Fast file transfers were demoed between two Broadcom AMP-enabled devices (i.e. PC to PC, PC to mobile phone, mobile phone to mobile phone).
Broadcom’s AMP implementation is based on the current draft of the next Bluetooth specification (code named “Seattle”) and the company expects its implementation will be compliant with the final specification when it achieves ratification – which is expected to occur in mid-2009. Although Broadcom’s AMP demonstration represents the cutting-edge of Bluetooth technology, the solution utilizes proven Bluetooth profiles, applications and user interface elements, ensuring that the current implementation will face minimal hurdles in becoming a product that Broadcom’s partners, and their customers, will feel comfortable using.
Broadcom’s Robert Rango seems pleased with the company’s achievments, adding: “Our unique position as a leader in both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth has enabled us to take leadership in applications that require multiple technologies to work well together in the same device, such as Bluetooth AMP. We look forward to our continued collaboration with the Bluetooth SIG in moving Bluetooth forward.”
Full release is available on Broadcom’s website.