The Bluetooth standard governing body, Bluetooth SIG, has introduced a new architecture and supporting set of educational tools that enables developers to quickly create Internet gateways for Bluetooth products. The new Bluetooth gateways allow any Bluetooth sensor to send and receive data to the cloud allowing for potential "Internet of Things" functionality such as the ability to monitor and control fixed Bluetooth sensors from a remote location.
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."
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design specification as delivered is sparse on details. At launch, it appears to be incompatible with existing home automation technologies from Apple, Google, or others, further complicating the already fragmented IoT ecosystem. The spec has the potential to be extended with little additional work by the Bluetooth SIG, but not by developers.
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