Today, the Bluetooth SIG introduces a new architecture and supporting set of educational tools that enables developers to quickly create Internet gateways for Bluetooth products. Bluetooth gateways allow any Bluetooth sensor to relay data to the cloud and back again. This architecture expands the potential functionality of the Internet of Things (IoT) by giving anyone the ability to monitor and control fixed Bluetooth sensors from a remote location, like turning off your lights while on vacation or unlocking your front door for a pet sitter.
The Bluetooth Internet gateway architecture and toolkit show developers, makers, hackers and OEMS how to quickly and easily create a connection between Bluetooth and the cloud without the need for a smart phone or tablet to serve as the go between. This essential communication capability is the next step to enabling the IoT by giving people and systems control of sensors regardless of proximity.
“We heard the demand for gateway functionality, not just from our members, but from consumers, who want a connected home but are not satisfied with current capabilities,” said Steve Hegenderfer, director of developer programs for the Bluetooth SIG. “People want to monitor their home security system from their couch and office. The Bluetooth Internet gateway architecture provides a standard way for any developer to create this gateway functionality. Routers, thermostats, security systems – the always on, always connected infrastructure in the home – can now speak to and control tiny, low power sensors and relay that information to the cloud, providing control from anywhere.”
The new architecture will meet an immediate need for smart home developers looking to create a hub for all the sensors in a home or to integrate gateway functionality into existing products.
“The key value promised by the IoT is that we can make life a little better by linking technologies and giving people more knowledge and control,” said Errett Kroeter, Bluetooth SIG vice president of marketing. “Our new Bluetooth gateway architecture enables the IoT to do just that. We are extending the monitoring and control of Bluetooth enabled sensor devices to the cloud and making the data accessible.”
The Bluetooth Internet Gateway Smart Starter Kit is available for download now at Bluetooth.com. Additional information on how to get your products connected to the IoT using Bluetooth technology can be found in the Bluetooth SIG white paper repository.
Filed Under: M2M (machine to machine)