Bluetooth 5.3 - Features and applications - RF Page (2024)

In today’s world, staying connected holds immense importance. Technology empowers us to maintain communication with loved ones, enhance productivity at work, and access the information we seek. Bluetooth technology has played a pivotal role in keeping us connected, and with the introduction of Bluetooth 5.3, its capabilities have become even more formidable. This latest specification introduces new features and enhancements that make Bluetooth faster, more reliable, and more versatile than ever before. Let’s explore the potential of Bluetooth 5.3, its features, and its applications.

Introduction to Bluetooth 5.3

For decades, Bluetooth technology has been an integral part of our daily lives, revolutionizing the way we connect and communicate with our devices, ranging from wireless headphones to smart home gadgets.

In 2021, Bluetooth 5.3, the latest version of this technology, was released, bringing about a paradigm shift in wireless communication. This updated version introduces a multitude of enhancements, enhancing its speed, security, and reliability compared to its predecessors.

An outstanding improvement in Bluetooth 5.3 lies in its expanded range, now capable of covering distances of up to 240 meters. This extended coverage makes it ideal for larger areas, making a single Bluetooth hub sufficient to cover an entire smart home.

Bluetooth 5.3 also showcases a significant upgrade in data transfer rates, reaching a theoretical maximum speed of 2 Mbps. This represents a doubling in speed compared to the previous version, making it an excellent choice for streaming high-quality audio and video content.

With its array of features and enhancements, Bluetooth 5.3 offers remarkable advancements in wireless communication technology. This presents an exciting realm for developers, manufacturers, and consumers to explore and leverage.

Bluetooth has two versions, Classic and Low Energy.

Bluetooth Classic

Bluetooth Classic is primarily designed for audio streaming and data transfer and operates at a 2.4GHz ISM band with 79 channels with 1MHz bandwidth.

Bluetooth LE – Low Energy

Bluetooth Low Energy version is one of the most efficient low-energy wireless communication technologies operating at 2.4GHz ISM band with 40 active (2MHz bandwidth) channels. Bluetooth LE is the best solution for supporting applications like audio streaming, data transfer, position tracking, device networking, and the Internet of Things.

Comparison of Bluetooth Classic and Bluetooth Low Energy

Features of Bluetooth 5.3

Bluetooth 5.3 version is ready to enhance the wireless experience with advanced features such as:

1. Periodic Advertising Enhancement

A recent improvement allows the AdvDataInfo (ADI) field to be added in Periodic Advertising packets. This will lead to more effective handling of repetitive data. Suppose you have a Bluetooth LE product that uses Periodic Advertising for broadcast data communications and transmits redundant data to boost reliability. In that case, it can now help save energy for the devices that receive it.

Wireless broadcast communication can be made more reliable by using the technique of automatically transmitting multiple packets containing the same data. Bluetooth broadcast devices are known to use this technique by sending multiple copies of the same data in quick succession to increase the chances of successful reception.

When devices transmit data via Periodic Advertising, the receiving device may end up getting the same data it has already processed. To address this, transmitting devices now have the option to include the AdvDataInfo field. This enables receiving devices to identify if they have already processed the data and discard it immediately without passing it on to the host. Receiving devices can save energy and scan more channels if they can quickly identify and discard packets with redundant data. This saves energy and allows more time to be spent scanning other channels, increasing the RX duty cycle.

2. Encryption Key Size Control Enhancements

The Host Controller Interface (HCI) commands have been updated to help hosts efficiently encrypt Bluetooth Classic (Basic Rate – BR/Enhanced Data Rate – EDR) connections with a minimum acceptable key length. These improvements will make Bluetooth Classic products more efficient and secure, as encryption is mandatory or highly encouraged in all (BR/EDR) connections.

When two Bluetooth wireless devices are connected, they use encryption to prevent unauthorized third parties from accessing the transmitted data. The strength of this protection depends on the length of the key used to encrypt the data. During the connection establishment process in Bluetooth Classic (BR/EDR), the key size is determined by the two controllers involved.

After selecting a key, hosts should check with their controllers to confirm that it meets the minimum length requirement. If the key doesn’t meet the minimum length, the hosts can choose not to send data over the connection. Although this method can prevent data from being transmitted over insecure connections, more efficient methods may be available.

The latest version of the Bluetooth Core Specification (5.3) has introduced a new optional Host Controller Interface (HCI) command called “Set Min Encryption Key Size”. This command allows a host to set a minimum key size for a controller when it establishes a connection with another device, which helps to improve the overall situation.

In addition to that, the controllers responsible for notifying hosts about changes in encryption settings on an existing connection (Encryption Change Event) have been upgraded. This enhancement includes providing the key size of the modified connection, which helps hosts receive the necessary information without any additional follow-ups. This optimization ensures that signaling efficiency is improved, making the process seamless and efficient for everyone involved.

3. Connection Subrating

With the new connection subrating feature, you can quickly switch between low and high-duty cycles on LE ACL connections that are already established. This will enhance the user experience for certain use cases.

When it comes to Bluetooth connections, there are two types: low-duty cycle and high-duty cycle. Low-duty cycle connections consume less power, while high-duty cycle connections use more power but offer faster data transfer rates. Certain Bluetooth devices have to maintain a low-duty cycle to save energy while performing their main function, but they can switch to high-duty cycle mode when necessary to support other activities.

Example: An instance of a Bluetooth hearing aid usually operates on a low-duty cycle while amplifying sound. However, it can swiftly switch to a higher duty cycle when the user receives a phone call or plays music on their smartphone.

4. Channel Classification Enhancement

The latest update in Bluetooth 5.3 allows connected devices to classify channels while transmitting data packets through various frequencies. Previously, data classification was only possible through the central transmitting device. By adding this feature, the occurrence of packet collision will be reduced, leading to an improvement in throughput. Additionally, it enhances reliability by minimizing susceptibility to potential interferences that may happen at the peripheral device. This is particularly important when a significant physical distance exists between the central and peripheral devices.

5. Removal of the Alternate MAC and PHY (AMP) Extension

AMP, which stands for Alternate Media Access Control and Physical layer extension, enables a Bluetooth system to have multiple secondary controllers in addition to the primary Bluetooth BR/EDR controller. These secondary controllers use the IEEE 802.11 MAC and PHY protocols instead of the standard Bluetooth layers of the primary controller.

Applications of Bluetooth 5.3

Bluetooth is one of the most commonly used low-power wireless technology that powers billions of devices and gadgets in every corner of the globe. As we advance with wireless technology, a wide range of applications are emerging to explore. Here are the most critical applications of Bluetooth 5.3:

1. Audio Applications

Bluetooth 5.3 introduces a fascinating feature by supporting high-quality audio codecs like LC3 (Low Complexity Communication Codec). LC3 ensures outstanding sound quality even at low bitrates, making it perfect for streaming audio on mobile devices. Moreover, Bluetooth 5.3 significantly reduces power consumption, leading to extended battery life for audio devices compared to previous versions.

The latest iteration of Bluetooth technology, Bluetooth 5.3, brings notable advantages to audio devices such as wireless headphones, soundbars, and speakers. With this updated version, you can now simultaneously stream audio to multiple devices. This means you can effortlessly play music from your phone on multiple wireless speakers or headphones at the same time.

Bluetooth 5.3 also offers advanced audio features, including the exciting capability of audio sharing. This feature allows two individuals to connect their headphones to a single device and enjoy the same content together. It proves particularly beneficial for couples and friends who wish to relish music or watch movies as a shared experience without causing inconvenience to others.

2. IoT Applications

The Internet of Things (IoT) consists of a network of physical objects connected to the Internet, capable of exchanging data. In this interconnected ecosystem, Bluetooth technology plays a vital role by enabling wireless communication between IoT devices. Bluetooth 5.3, an upgraded version of Bluetooth, introduces even more advanced features and capabilities, further solidifying its significance in this field.

Bluetooth 5.3 finds extensive application in various IoT devices, including sensors, smart home appliances, and healthcare devices. Its improved range, speed, and reliability facilitate seamless communication among these devices, resulting in enhanced intelligence and efficiency.

The practical applications of Bluetooth 5.3 are numerous. For instance, it can be integrated into a smart home security system to establish communication with sensors placed throughout the residence. This enables homeowners to detect and respond to any unusual activity, receiving alerts through a dedicated smartphone app. Moreover, in healthcare settings, Bluetooth 5.3 enables remote patient monitoring, allowing healthcare professionals to receive real-time data for accurate and timely care delivery.

3. Healthcare Applications

The latest iteration of Bluetooth technology is Bluetooth 5.3, which brings numerous enhancements compared to its predecessor, offering substantial benefits for healthcare applications.

One notable improvement in Bluetooth 5.3 is its extended range and increased bandwidth, enabling better connectivity and faster data transfer speeds. This is particularly crucial in healthcare scenarios where rapid and accurate data transmission is essential.

Bluetooth 5.3 also introduces enhanced security features, making it highly suitable for transmitting sensitive medical information. Healthcare providers can ensure patient data’s safe transmission and reception by leveraging secure connections.

In the realm of healthcare, Bluetooth 5.3 is already being implemented in remote patient monitoring applications. Its advanced capabilities, including the ability to transmit data over longer distances and with greater bandwidth, empower healthcare professionals to monitor patients remotely and receive real-time updates on their health status. This feature has the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the need for frequent hospital visits.

Furthermore, Bluetooth 5.3 can play a role in healthcare’s Internet of Medical Things (IoMT). It enables the connection of various medical devices, establishing a network that facilitates seamless communication between these devices and healthcare professionals.

4. Automotive Applications

The automotive industry stands to gain significant benefits from the capabilities offered by Bluetooth 5.3. This technology has seen exciting advancements, allowing Bluetooth to provide a range of compelling features. Notably, Bluetooth 5.3 excels in delivering seamless connectivity between devices, enabling drivers and passengers to effortlessly connect their smartphones or tablets to the car’s infotainment system, offering convenience and ease of use.

Enhanced audio quality is a standout feature of Bluetooth 5.3, making it particularly valuable for the automotive industry. This updated version enables cars to offer high-quality audio streaming, providing an enjoyable listening experience for music and podcast enthusiasts. Furthermore, Bluetooth 5.3 extends the connectivity range, allowing passengers seated in the rear of the car to stay connected to the vehicle’s audio system.

A remarkable capability of Bluetooth 5.3 is its support for location-based services, which proves invaluable in the automotive industry. This feature finds utility in intelligent transport systems, vehicle-to-vehicle communication, and tracking of stolen vehicles. By providing real-time traffic information and warnings to drivers, Bluetooth 5.3 contributes to safer and more efficient roads, enhancing overall driving experiences.

The differences between Bluetooth 5.3 and previous versions

Bluetooth 5.3 represents the latest advancement in Bluetooth technology, introducing numerous improvements and enhancements compared to its predecessors. One standout upgrade is the extended range and enhanced connectivity. With Bluetooth 5.3, you can now enjoy up to four times the range of earlier versions, ensuring a reliable connection even at greater distances.

Moreover, Bluetooth 5.3 provides faster data transfer rates, enabling seamless sharing of files, streaming of music, and utilization of other Bluetooth-enabled services with enhanced efficiency.

Enhanced security features are also a highlight of Bluetooth 5.3, offering robust protection against potential threats and hacking attempts. With advanced encryption algorithms and comprehensive security measures, Bluetooth 5.3 ensures your devices’ and data’s safety and integrity.

Furthermore, Bluetooth 5.3 introduces a range of new features and capabilities not found in previous versions. These include improved audio quality, increased power efficiency, and compatibility with a diverse range of devices and applications.

Consideration of 6GHz Bands for Future

A project is currently in progress to develop specifications for Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) operation in the additional unlicensed mid-band spectrum, specifically the 6 GHz frequency band. This expansion of the spectrum will bring about improvements in Bluetooth performance, such as higher data throughput, lower latency, greater positioning accuracy, and new capabilities to meet the future needs of companies implementing Bluetooth technology into their devices and solutions.

Reference: Bluetooth overview