Comparing with Different Bluetooth Versions: Complete Guide You Should Know

Introduction of Bluetooth Version

Nowadays, Bluetooth technology is featured in billions of consumer electronics devices, including smartphones, laptops, and smart home gadgets. During this time, Bluetooth versions are also constantly updated. Bluetooth technology has significantly enhanced convenience for people around the world with the different versions of Bluetooth launched. You may wonder what are the differences between all these Bluetooth versions. In this article, you will figure out all the versions of Bluetooth. It will help you a lot when you are choosing Bluetooth devices.

What is Bluetooth Technology?

Bluetooth technology is a wireless communication standard that allows devices to exchange data over short distances using radio waves. Developed in the 1990s by Ericsson and later standardized by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), it is widely used for connecting devices such as smartphones, headphones, speakers, computers, and other electronic devices. Now, Bluetooth technology is also widely used in the IoT industry.

A Brief History of Bluetooth Versions

Here is the brief development track of the Bluetooth version:

Image from: mokosmart

Different Bluetooth Versions

Bluetooth 1.0

Bluetooth 1.0 was the first version of Bluetooth technology, introduced in 1999. It laid the foundation for wireless communication.

Bluetooth 1.0 is primarily focused on wireless connections, creating communications among mobile and computing devices, computers and peripherals. It is operated in the 2.4 GHz ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) band, which is globally available and unlicensed. The first Bluetooth version supports a maximum data rate of up to 1 Mbps and 10 meters (33 feet) typical communication range.

Despite its pioneering status, Bluetooth 1.0 had several limitations and challenges. One of the major issues with Bluetooth 1.0 was poor interoperability between devices from different manufacturers. This led to frequent connection failures and unreliable communication. Also, complex pairing processes, power consumption and security issues are the other problems this first generation met.

Bluetooth 2.0

Bluetooth 2.0 was a significant advancement in Bluetooth technology, introduced in 2004. This version brought several improvements and new features over its predecessors.

One of the most notable features of Bluetooth 2.0 was the introduction of Enhanced Data Rate (EDR). EDR increased the data transfer rate to 3 Mbps, three times faster than the previous maximum of 1 Mbps in Bluetooth 1.2.EDR also reduced power consumption during data transfer by completing transfers more quickly.

What’s more, this Bluetooth version has improved its power efficiency, backward compatibility and reduced interference, making it more reliable, faster, and more efficient. Bluetooth 2.0 solved many of the limitations of earlier versions, leading to broader acceptance and integration of Bluetooth technology in a wide range of devices and applications.

Bluetooth 3.0

In 2009, Bluetooth 3.0 marked a significant advancement in the Bluetooth version by providing faster data transfer rates and better power efficiency. This version is often referred to as Bluetooth 3.0 + HS (High Speed). The speed can be up to 24 Mbps over a collocated 802.11 link, which highlights its key feature of high-speed data transfer using an alternative radio.

Other improvements of Bluetooth 3.0 are Alternative MAC/PHY (AMP), Enhanced Retransmission Mode (ERTM) and Unicast Connectionless Data (UCD). But its high power consumption rate is a huge disadvantage.

Bluetooth 4.0 Series

Bluetooth 4.0

Launched in 2010, Bluetooth 4.0 was a revolutionary update that greatly broadened the scope and functionality of Bluetooth technology.

To meet the growing need for wireless connectivity among small devices, its standout feature was the introduction of Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). It significantly reduced power consumption compared to Classic Bluetooth, enabling devices to run on small batteries for extended periods (months to years). This technology transformed the use of Bluetooth in numerous applications, especially within the expanding Internet of Things (IoT) sector.

Bluetooth 4.0 introduced dual-mode devices capable of supporting both Classic Bluetooth and BLE. This allowed for backward compatibility and the use of both protocols in the same device, depending on the application’s requirements.

Also, BLE featured fast connection and disconnection times, making it more efficient for applications that required frequent but short data transmissions. Bluetooth 4.0 improved security features, including AES-128 encryption, to ensure secure communication between devices.

Bluetooth 4.1

Bluetooth 4.1 in 2013, brought several enhancements to the Bluetooth 4.0 specification, improving connectivity, performance, and usability. This version focused on refining the existing Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) features and addressing some of the limitations of Bluetooth 4.0.

Bluetooth 4.1 improved the ability of Bluetooth devices to coexist with LTE (Long-Term Evolution) networks. This was achieved by enhancing the coexistence mechanisms to reduce interference between Bluetooth and LTE signals. It also supports the operation of both dual-mode devices (supporting both Classic Bluetooth and BLE) and single-mode BLE devices.

What’s more, this Bluetooth version enhancements to the Channel Selection Algorithm (CSA) improved the efficiency of frequency hopping, reducing the likelihood of interference and enhancing overall performance. Bluetooth 4.1 also introduced support for coexistence with the latest cellular and supports IPv6-based cloud synchronization, addressing IoT application requirements.

Bluetooth 4.2

The new version of Bluetooth 4.2 brought several significant enhancements to the Bluetooth 4 family in 2014. The new generation is focusing on improving data transfer capabilities, security, and IoT (Internet of Things) applications. It built on the features of Bluetooth 4.1 and introduced new functionalities that further expanded the versatility and performance of Bluetooth technology.

Bluetooth 4.2 made a significant advancement by incorporating support for internet connectivity through IPv6 protocols. It allowed multiple Bluetooth devices to connect to the internet or a LAN through a single gateway terminal. Additionally, it provided transfer speeds up to 2.5 times faster and a packet capacity 10 times larger than Bluetooth 4.1.

The enhancements in privacy and security helped address concerns about device tracking and data protection, making Bluetooth 4.2 more suitable for sensitive applications in areas like healthcare and personal data management.

Bluetooth 5.0 Series

Bluetooth 5.0

Bluetooth 5.0, launched in 2016, brought notable advancements over earlier Bluetooth versions. It focused on increasing speed, range, and broadcasting capabilities, as well as enhancing the overall performance and efficiency of Bluetooth connections.

It increased message capacity to 255 bytes, which is eight times greater than the capacity offered by Bluetooth 4.2. It increased message capacity to 255 bytes, which is 8 times greater than the capacity offered by Bluetooth 4.2. Bluetooth 5.0 doubled the maximum data transfer rate of BLE from 1 Mbps to 2 Mbps.

Bluetooth 5.0 significantly increased the range of BLE connections. The theoretical maximum range was extended up to 240 meters (about 800 feet) in open space, compared to 100 meters (about 330 feet) with Bluetooth 4.2.

Surprisingly, indoor positioning and navigation is the new-added function that is not supported by previous Bluetooth versions. It become particularly useful for applications requiring faster and more reliable communication, such as smart home devices, trackers, and location-based services.

Bluetooth 5.1

In 2019, Bluetooth 5.1 launched. This Bluetooth version brought several notable enhancements like improving location services and device connectivity in centimeter-level. This version focused on refining the precision and efficiency of Bluetooth communications, making it more versatile for a wide range of applications, especially in indoor navigation and asset tracking.

Version 5.1 was the first version to implement the Mesh-based model. Its primary areas for improvement are as follows: GATT Caching Periodic, Advertising Sync Transfer, Advertising Channel Index, Angle of Departure (AoD), and Bluetooth Angle of Arrival (BLE AoA).

Bluetooth 5.2

Bluetooth 5.2 was announced in 2020. It was released together with the next generation of Bluetooth LE Audio.

Bluetooth 5.2 introduced isochronous channels, which allow for time-synchronized data transfer between devices. This is crucial for applications requiring real-time communication, such as audio streaming and certain types of data transfers where timing is critical. Also, Bluetooth version 5.2 also has three following features: ISOC (Isochronous Channels), EATT (Enhanced Attribute Protocol), and LE Power Control (LEPC).

Bluetooth 5.3

In 2021, Bluetooth 5.3 was launched. Compared with Bluetooth 5.2, Bluetooth 5.3 offers reduced latency, enhanced interference resistance, and improved battery life.

Bluetooth 5.3’s enhancements a lot, particularly in periodic advertising, data length extension, and isochronous channels, improve the efficiency and reliability of Bluetooth connections. These updates are beneficial for applications in areas like location tracking, audio streaming, and sensor networks.

Bluetooth 5.4

Bluetooth 5.4 is the newest Bluetooth version, which was launched in 2023. The key modified areas are periodic advertising, isochronous channels, and power control, making it particularly valuable for applications in IoT devices. The improvements in data transfer efficiency, extended range, and security further enhance the performance and reliability of Bluetooth connections.

Bluetooth 1.0 VS. 2.0 VS. 3.0: Classic Bluetooth Versions Comparison

Here’s a comparison table highlighting the key features and improvements across Bluetooth versions 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0:

Bluetooth 1.0 VS. 2.0 VS. 3.0: Classic Bluetooth Versions Comparison

Here’s a comparison table highlighting the key features and improvements across Bluetooth versions 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0:

Classic Bluetooth Versions VS. Bluetooth Low Energy Versions

The Expectations of The Bluetooth in Future

Bluetooth versions have evolved significantly over 26 years from the first generation to Bluetooth 5.4. Originally designed for audio, text, and video transmission, its focus has shifted towards low-power data transfer optimized for IoT applications. The future of Bluetooth technology is poised to bring exciting advancements and innovations as it continues to evolve to meet the demands of emerging applications and use cases. Here are some key expectations for Bluetooth technology:

• More Effective Low Energy (LE)
• High-Accuracy Distance Measurement
• Enhanced Data Transfer Rates and Capacity
• Improved Security and Privacy
• Improve Device-to-Device Networks
• Other Invitational Function

Conclusion

Through the comparison of different Bluetooth versions, we know the development of Bluetooth technology is constantly enhanced and improved. Overall, the future of Bluetooth technology promises continued innovation and expansion, addressing the growing demands of connected devices, enhancing user experiences, and contributing to the advancement of various industries.

FAQ

Q: Can a Bluetooth device connect with a Bluetooth 5.0 device?

A: Typically, Bluetooth 3.0 device cannot connect with a 5.0 device because of the different transmission protocols. However, Bluetooth version 5.0 device can connect with Bluetooth 3.0 device for its exhibit backward compatibility.

Q: How do I update my Bluetooth version for my device?

A: You can update the system and change the Bluetooth adapter to update the Bluetooth version

Q: Will there be a Bluetooth version 6?

A: For now, Bluetooth version 5.4 is the latest Bluetooth version. The sixth generation may be on the way.