Bluetooth Low Energy and the Automotive Transformation

The automotive industry has been experiencing a tremendous transformation. For many consumers, cars are evolving from being just a transport medium to becoming an integral part of their digital lives. The modern automobile is a technology hub hosting wireless technologies like GPS, Bluetooth®, Wi-Fi®, near field communication (NFC) and cellular (4G/5G), all serving as complementary connectivity options to help enhance functionality, user safety and comfort.

One of the latest developments in the midst of this transformation is automotive original equipment manufacturers’ (OEMs) embrace of Bluetooth low energy technology because of its technical merits and embedded presence in smartphones. The intent is to enable consumers to use their Bluetooth low energy-equipped smartphones and portable devices to manage applications revolving around in-vehicle control, personalized infotainment, vehicle diagnostics, car access, vehicle sharing and piloted parking. As the industry also evolves to be greener, replacing cables using low-power wireless technology is another major potential for Bluetooth low energy.