Bluetooth and WiFi are two popular means of communication is mobile devices and laptops, each of which have their own uses and advantages. Recently Michael Foley of the Bluetooth Special Interest Group indicated that a new chip, that includes Bluetooth and Wifi Modules integrated in one, will make an appearance in different gadgets and a broad range of devices by the middle of next year.
Benifits
Both WLAN and Bluetooth technologies use the same frequency spectrum, which must be shared effectively for both technologies to be used at the same time. This means a consumer can use a mobile phone equipped with a Bluetooth wireless headset to make a call while using the same phone to simultaneously check information on the Internet via a WLAN network - without experiencing interference.
Also, by reducing two chips into one, will not only reduce the cost of devices, it will have effect on the power consumption as well, thus further enhancing batterry lives. The WiFi radio will be turned off when not utilized, whereas the Bluetooth can function as normal.
"The size reduction advantage, the extremely low power consumption and the coexistence technology for 802.11 and Bluetooth create a compelling combination for a wide range of mobile devices," said Paul Marino, vice president and general manager, Connectivity, Philips Semiconductors. "We expect that these WLAN/Bluetooth capabilities will contribute to a dramatic change in the way people use their phones and PDAs, and help to drive increased revenues to service providers."