Bluetooth SIG promises mesh networking in 2016 to drive home automation and IoT
As Bluetooth Smart sensors proliferate in the home, mesh networking will become an integral component to ensure that Bluetooth enabled smart locks, lights, HVAC systems, and even appliances work together to deliver a seamless smart home experience.
“The Bluetooth SIG is very good at standardizing its technology and creating platforms that ensure product interoperability, while allowing members the flexibility to innovate,” said Mark Powell, executive director of the Bluetooth SIG. “Our members are extremely interested in mesh networking, not just for the smart home, but for every vertical using Bluetooth Smart. Given the sheer number of companies coming into the working group, this is clearly a priority for our members.”
Strong interest in mesh networking is reflected in over 80 member companies having already volunteered to serve on the Bluetooth Smart Mesh Working Group, among the highest of any SIG working group. The group is comprised of companies from a broad array of industries, including automotive, mobile phone/mobility, industrial automation, home automation, consumer electronics, and computing. Rather than focusing on one specific use case, the objective of the group is to build a common platform all members can develop to. The group is assessing many user scenarios that would benefit from mesh, including lighting, HVAC control, asset tracking, and security.
“The value proposition for Bluetooth technology in the Internet of Things (IoT) is unmatched — it consumes the least amount of power, is the lowest cost, and most widely available wireless solution enabling the IoT today,” added Powell. “Bringing mesh networking to the Bluetooth specification will propel the technology to entirely new market segments.”
The Smart Mesh Working Group expects to have the specification ready for prototype testing later this year, and the SIG will look to officially adopt profiles in 2016.
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