Bluetooth is Making Some Noise in the Automotive World

Bluetooth has many untapped use cases; the potential for using its functionality in automotive devices is large; however, its primary role is still handsfree calling. To some extent one is not surprised; the incorporation of Bluetooth for handsfree calling has been 'unhurried' in automotive products and in the OEM market, the adoption of Bluetooth has been even slower. Especially when we consider its desirability by consumers, the adoption of Bluetooth by mobile makers and legislative measures preventing drivers from using their mobile phones while driving.

However IMS believes this is set to change. Although many of its potential applications are still 'unrealised', finally Bluetooth is starting to be used for music streaming as well as handsfree calling.

The launch of new infotainment platforms by car manufacturers such as Ford and Fiat has been well documented and the inclusion of wireless audio streaming in aftermarket products has increased significantly during the last 12 months.

Many in the market were astonished when Apple, the makers of the long anticipated iPhone, did not include Bluetooth audio streaming to the specification. Was this an oversight by Apple or a sign that the hype surrounding audio streaming is somewhat premature? Regardless, other device manufacturers feel very optimistic about the promise of A2DP in cars and see this as just the beginning. Video streaming is the next big Bluetooth opportunity open to exploration by manufacturers in the not too distant future. However, we?ll have to wait for Bluetooth Version 3.0 before that can be realised.

Posted to the site on 13th August 2007