02/10, 10:15pm
AirPlay, Bluetooth optons
Two different tech gear companies have announced two new products for music lovers who want small speakers. Gear4 out of El Segundo are launching the AirZone Series 1 home speaker and iPhone/iPod dock that incorporates AirPlay compatibility for remote sounds and control, while iPod accessory maker iHome is offering two different mini-speakers that stream music and more via Bluetooth connections, one including a mic for speakerphone use.
more
02/03, 10:30pm
Residential gateways may lead to ubiquitous Wi-Fi
Two applications from Google to the FCC, one asking to test a Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled "entertainment device" from December and other seeking to set up a residential gateway using Wi-Fi and Bluetooth from earlier this month may indicate that Google is planning to deploy or at least support future 802.11ac networks and devices, which would dramatically increase transmission speeds for HD video and other data throughout a local network.
more
01/13, 6:05pm
Speaker uses surface contact to boost bass
WOWee has brought its latest gadget to CES, the Pro portable speaker. Electronista stopped by the company's booth to listen to the latest model, which adds a microphone and a Bluetooth radio to the Slim variant that was released approximately one year ago.
more
01/11, 12:30am
Company is celebrating 10 years in business
Accessory maker XtremeMac, showing at CES on the occasion of its 10th anniversary in the market, has taken the wraps off two new products today -- a lightweight, portable Bluetooth stereo speaker that also features a line-in jack for other music players, and a line of multi-device iOS charging docks that rely on the slim design of iOS products and which offer a full 10 watts in each port, with one model offering up to five charging slots.
more
01/10, 12:30am
Wireless speakers for home and auto
SuperTooth, a French Bluetooth accessories maker best known for their line of wireless car speakers, has announced two new products at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. The first is a complete re-design of its previous Disco portable speaker into the Disco2, which features an angular vertical look but maintains the high sound quality. Also debuting is Crystal, the company's latest sun-visor-mounted Bluetooth speaker for smartphones.
more
01/09, 12:55am
Device offers most connected features
iHome has introduced one of the more interesting iPad accessories that Electronista has seen in recent time, the iDM5 dock. The device combines many of the features that are offered by separate equipment: a Bluetooth-connected keyboard, stereo speakers and a speakerphone, all in a single piece of hardware.
more
01/06, 11:30pm
Products for home, portable and live events, more
Consumer electronics manufacturer Behringer has introduced its 2012 lineup of products, many of which are aimed at iOS devices under the umbrella moniker of Eurosound. Offerings in the 50-product lineup include a sound-bar-and-subwoofer set, a wireless iPod sound system, a portable Bluetooth speaker, a PA system with an iPod dock built-in and more. The company has brought its notorious iNuke and its new lineup to the CES show.
more
01/06, 10:00pm
Will formally launch at CES, optional mirror
Those who like to sing in the shower or just enjoy some music near the pool or beach can do so without fear of getting their expensive iOS or Android device wet with iDevices' introduction of the iShower, a long range (up to 200 feet) Bluetooth speaker that is water-resistant, can be paired with up to five different devices and offers up to 15 hours of safe listening. The company, best known for its iGrill cooking hardware, will debut the iShower at CES.
more
01/04, 8:00pm
Award for using iOS device as flash drive also
The US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has given Apple a total of 13 patents today, covering a wide range of topics from the design of the Thunderbolt Display to the (at the time) revolutionary interface for managing lists in iOS. The latter is an important patent that may be leveraged in future litigation, as most other smartphone competitors have copied it fairly closely in their own implementations. Apple was also given a patent for its now-discontinued Bluetooth headset.
more
12/30, 1:15pm
Casio shows first Bluetooth LE G-Shock watch
Casio Japan, known for its calculators and wristwatches, has just introduced the first watches with Bluetooth LE (low energy) onboard, making it compatible with Bluetooth 4.0 cellphones like the iPhone 4S. The G-Shock GB-6900 will synchronize the current time from paired handsets and will display incoming call names or numbers, e-mails, and text messages on its display. Users can also switch handsets into vibration mode without touching them.
more
12/27, 6:25am
Deals on Bluetooth headsets, laptops, and more
Today's deals from DealNN include discounted headsets, laptops, and more. Onsale.com has recently lowered the cost of the Plantronics Explorer 245 Bluetooth Headset, which offers Digital Signal Processing technology, voice-activated dialing, and QuickPair support. Currently featured at DealNN, this Bluetooth headset has now dropped to a mere $5.99 in price and offers savings of up to 88%.
more
12/16, 3:05pm
Streaming audio expected with update in February
BlackBerry PlayBook owners may soon be getting A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) audio. CrackBerry has posted a screenshot of the latest version BlackBerry PlayBook 2.0 developer beta, which shows off support for the Bluetooth stereo capability. With it, PlayBook owners can stream two-channel stereo from their tablets to headphones, car stereos, speakers, or other Bluetooth-equipped hardware.
more
12/14, 7:30pm
Hidden microphone allows doubling as headset
Computer accessory case and bag maker BBP Industries has opted to expand its offerings and include the Mobiband Bluetooth headphone set as a complementary extension of its product line. A hidden microphone with automatic echo-reduction allows the headphones to double as a phone headset, essentially an improved version of the Jaybird Sportsband. The design is foldable and offers up to 11 hours of music or talk time.
more
12/06, 11:10am
Keyboards backwards-compatible with Bluetooth PCs
Broadcom has introduced a new chip that is claimed to enable Bluetooth keyboards to run for up to 10 years without swapping or recharging batteries. The low-power component is specifically geared for human interface devices (HIDs), such as keyboards and mice, that are used in conjunction with tablets, smartphones and computers.
more
12/01, 11:25pm
Includes TV guide, Netflix support
Working in tandem with Griffin Technology's Beacon bluetooth-to-infrared device, Dijit is a remote-control app that uses an iPhone or Android smartphone as a remote control that is compatible with some 200,000 home electronics devices. The team behind the iPhone version have announced that a native iPad version is now in submission to Apple, re-designed to take advantage of the large tablet surface and more "swipe-able" touch controls.
more
11/30, 5:10pm
Nokia working on indoor navigation standard
Nokia Research is working on making Bluetooth 4.0 provide indoor location services to users, EETimes reported. To this effect, it has showed off its work in progress to 30 companies that include chipmakers and service providers in the hopes of creating a group. It aims to set global standards for indoor navigation services by 2013.
more
11/16, 9:00pm
Available in either white or black
Verbatim has re-worked its Bluetooth Wireless Mobile Keyboard to add features specific media control and function keys suited to iOS devices while keeping the keyboard compatible with other tablets and compatible smartphones. In addition, the Bluetooth capability of the device has been upgraded to allow pairing with up to six devices. The compact, foldable keyboard also includes an iPhone stand to put the smaller device at a comfortable angle while typing.
more
11/16, 5:30pm
Pricey but quality speaker dock
When purchasing a speaker dock for iOS devices, a number of different factors have to be considered. From price to sound quality to iOS integration to connectivity or even just looks, different users have different priorities. Fidelio offers the DS7700, a docking speaker with an attractive design, quality sound for its size, Bluetooth, internet radio stations and more. But how does it measure up to the competition? We find out in our exclusive review.
more
11/02, 1:00am
Allows charging up to three times on the go
Samsung has released its promised new Bluetooth headset, the HM7000, that features a small combination case and portable charging stand that allows the headset to be recharged up to three additional times while on the go. The case features an on/off switch, and the headset itself offers dual-mic noise reduction and echo cancellation, a boom mic for enhanced call clarity, voice commands and voice prompts, as well as an Android app for additional abilities.
more
11/01, 10:25pm
Compact design integrates dual drivers
Logitech has quietly introduced the Mini Boombox, a compact speaker accessory that can be connected to Bluetooth-equipped smartphones, tablets or other devices. The new model, which was briefly posted on Amazon before the listing was removed, serves as a pocket-size cousin to the company's larger Boombox speaker system.
more
10/26, 6:15pm
Project currently awaits Kickstarter funding
DesignHuman Colectiv has introduced a new Kickstarter project that aims to bring high quality audio to Bluetooth-connected smartphones and tablets such as the iPhone, iPad, or Android-based devices. The +Knob wireless speaker integrates two 2.5-inch drivers powered by a National Semiconductor amp chip, with an estimated output rating between 20-25 watts.
more
10/25, 6:30pm
Protective gear for those on the go
Two different Mac and iOS accessory makers are offering sleeves and cases that not only accompany the iPad, but also a wireless keyboard (either Apple's own Bluetooth model that can work with both the iPad and other devices, or an integrated case-and-keyboard specifically for the iPad). Laptop Tailors, a Netherlands-based all-female Dutch company, offers felt sleeves, while new start-upHatch & Company has released a faux-leather case and keyboard for the iPad 2.
more
10/24, 6:50pm
Offers lower power usage, latency, more
Bluetooth 4.0, introduced in the latest models of MacBook Air, Mac mini and the iPhone 4S among other devices, is getting a re-branding courtesy of the working group that controls the technology. The 4.0 spec will now be referred to as "Bluetooth Smart Ready" for devices that use a dual-mode radio that can handle both the new spec and the "classic" Bluetooth abilities, while the tag "Bluetooth Smart" will refer to dramatically lower-power devices that use a single mode 4.0 radio only.
more
10/18, 9:45am
User-downloadable upgrade at Ford Sync website
Ford has released a free software update for its SYNC in-car system. Version G1 V3.2.2 will give more SYNC users the ability to have text messages read aloud to them while driving through the emerging Bluetooth Message Access Profile (MAP). Last year, Ford praised RIM for embracing the standard, and called on other manufacturers and OS developers to do so. HTC, Samsung and LG have all only recently been certified for the MAP protocol.
more
10/17, 6:00pm
Bluetooth portable mini-speaker a strong value
There are times when you need a small, portable mini-speaker to with your iPod, iPhone or even notebook computer -- whether its for a presentation or just atmospheric music. The Soundmatters FoxLv2 speaker not only offers decent sound in a tiny (about the size of a hand) package, it includes Bluetooth capability and can act as a speakerphone with a wide variety of devices. Though it's not the cheapest mini-speaker on the market, it makes a strong case for being one that may prove the most durable and versatile. We take a deeper look in a variety of real-world uses in our exclusive review.
more
10/04, 10:00pm
Lower power use, lower latency
Apple's just-announced iPhone 4S is the first iPhone to utilize the Bluetooth 4.0 specification (though it is already in use in the latest MacBook Air and Mac mini), which focuses on making the wireless protocol use dramatically less power, and offers lower latency and tougher encryption. The standard Bluetooth used in most recent Apple devices is now referred to as "classic" Bluetooth, while the new 4.0 specification features the option of using as little as one one-hundredth as much power in its most idle state.
more
10/04, 1:20am
Syncs directly with iPad, Mac, PC
A company called Joypad has released a self-title free app for the iPhone that turns it into a Wi-Fi, ad-hoc or Bluetooth synced controller for some popular retro-style games, including Super Mega Worm, Vertex Blaster and others. The app offers multi-button presses, five controller layouts (with support for additional ones), accelerometer and multi-player support as well as options for retro gaming. Joypad supports select iOS as well as Mac or Windows games.
more
09/21, 12:15am
Three tablet stands, two Bluetooth keyboards
USRobotics, well known for its line of modems and other internet accessories, has started offering accessories for tablets, smartphones and e-readers and netbooks, including two that are specifically for iOS devices -- though most are aimed at general tablet-sized devices to make them compatible with the widest variety of devices. The company offers three models of stands and two Bluetooth keyboards, and plan for other accessories in the future.
more
09/16, 8:00pm
Keyboard has iPad-specific and universal versions
Accessory maker Kensington has added to its lineup of tablet accessories with a folio-style case that features a universal and removable Bluetooth keyboard compatible with anyy model of 10-inch tablet on the market, and a new line of security cases for the iPad 2 that work with with the company's own ClickSafe locks. It is also offering a new stylus called the Virtuoso Metro, which doubles as a conventional pen.
more
09/15, 11:05pm
Also outs sequel to Extreme headset
Active noise cancellation, a technology normally found on high-end stereo headphones, is now available on the Jabra Supreme traditional-style mono headset, combined with its other technologies such as Noise Blackout 3.0 and wind-noise reduction. The Supreme features a fold-out boom arm that powers the unit on and off, and uses one mic plus and electronic chipset to generate the "white" noise that blocks ambient sound to make calls sounds clearer.
more
09/14, 4:00am
Accessories set to launch in September
Logitech has introduced several new wireless accessories geared for the iPad, iPhone and Android-based devices. The headset features Bluetooth connectivity, enabling users to listen to music and videos or place calls without a wired connection to the device. A noise-canceling microphone is claimed to reduce background noise, while the integrated battery is said to offer six hours of playback time depending on conditions.
more
09/13, 6:10pm
Can be paired with up to 10 phones
Bluetooth accessory maker Parrot has announced the latest addition to its MiniKit line of hands-free Bluetooth smartphone car kits with the MiniKit+, which can handle two Bluetooth mobile phones simultaneously and pair with up to 10 such phones, storing up to 2,000 synchronized contacts with each. The kit, which will arrive in October, assigns different bell tones to each of the two phones in use, and both speaks the names of incoming calls and lets drivers accept or reject calls by voice.
more
09/09, 6:05pm
Bluetooth audio device could be launched next week
Bose has submitted a new headset to the FCC for approval. As usual, the company has revealed little about it other than its BT2L name, Bluetooth support, earpiece is a plastic on-ear design. It's powered by a rechargeable, non-replaceable lithium-ion polymer battery.
more
08/30, 8:20am
Samsung Droid Prime validated by Bluetooth group
Rumors of the Samsung Droid Prime being Google's true flagship phone were given quick support Tuesday after the discovery of the phone in a Bluetooth Special Interest Group certification. The device is going by its rumored SCH-i515 name, the SCH being an immediate clue as to its Verizon destination. Appropriately, it's also listed as a CDMA phone and coming to North America.
more
08/24, 1:50am
Improves tonal richness over Bluetooth
Jawbone's small-but-impressive wireless Bluetooth speaker Jambox has received a software update that adds a feature the company calls LiveAudio -- intended to increase the "three-dimensional" and immersive qualities of music heard on the device, giving it a "spatial richess" that more closely approximates the kind of ambient and nuanced experience of enjoying a live performance. The update is included in the Jambox Software Update 2.0 release on the company's web page.
more
08/09, 8:00pm
Users can track pulse, distance, speed, more
Scosche Industries has debuted a new fitness combination for iPhone and iPod Touch users, a hardware band to wear during workouts combined with a companion app called the Scosche myTrek to help users monitor their pulse, target training zone and calories burned, as well as runners' speed, pace and distance. Past workouts can be stored, and the band uses Bluetooth to wirelessly transmit the data collected to the app up to 33 feet away.
more
08/05, 12:10am
Not discontinued as was claimed earlier
A further follow-up from other sources has produced evidence that Apple may simply be upgrading the Magic Mouse to a newer model rather than discontinuing it as earlier claims had said. A new Magic Mouse model could offer upgraded Bluetooth connectivity (to version 4.0) and better support for Lion-oriented gestures, Cult of Mac is reporting.
more
08/02, 12:15pm
Recent topics from the forums.
Today in the MacNN forums one Professional Poster started a thread discussing an App called BetterTouchTool click here to read more. Also today one forum goer noticed that Bluetooth devices behave differently with Lion and is wondering if anyone else has noticed these differences.
more
08/01, 5:25pm
Portable keyboard for iPhone, Touch, iPad, more
MacNN has reviewed the Verbatim Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard, a re-branded version of the Freedom i-Connex bluetooth keyboard that features a folding design, media keys to control iTunes, a tucked-away stand for the iPhone or iPod Touch and other controls aimed at iOS device users -- but which can also be used with other smartphones and tablets. Our review reveals a few surprising touches, along with a few portability compromises -- read the full review for more.
more
07/18, 8:05pm
Streams GPS info, speaks status messages
Bluetooth and cell phone accessory maker Jabra has announced a new, no-installation-required Bluetooth speakerphone called simply Drive that connects to up to two devices (such as a phone and GPS unit) and requires no setup, speaks its own status messages and streams audio from a GPS device or smartphone in addition to acting as a hands-free cell phone speaker/mic combination, featuring 20 hours of talk time and 30 days of standby.
more
07/12, 3:30pm
Could allow keyboards, other peripherals
The latest iOS 5 SDK suggests hidden Bluetooth support on the second-generation Apple TV, observers point out. The code contains references to turning Bluetooth off and on in the Settings menu, and pairing devices, most notably the Apple wireless keyboard. External hardware can currently only interact via Wi-Fi or infrared.
more
07/05, 5:10pm
SOS button sends GPS location to rescuers
VEA Digital has introduced a new watch, the Sportive, that centers around a 1.5-inch touchscreen. The device offers a variety of smartphone-like features, enabling users to take advantage of a camera, GPS, 8GB of onboard storage, an MP3 player and Bluetooth connectivity.
more
06/29, 10:45am
Stream music from iOS docked or via Bluetooth
Soundfreaq have updated their Bluetooth and universal iDevice audio speaker Sound Platform with a new "ghost" color to match white iPhones, iPods and iPads (and can also work with Android and Blackberry devices). The critically-acclaimed home speaker dock allows users to access music remotely either by docking the device or via Bluetooth streaming, letting users continue to use the device as their home audio system plays.
more
06/21, 1:15pm
Apple and Nordic take top spots in Bluetooth SIG
The Bluetooth Special Interest Group on Tuesday marked unusual additions as it brought both Apple and Nordic Semiconductor to its board of directors. The move gave the two greater control over how the short-range wireless standard works. Apple would be there to help with "platform development" for technologies like Bluetooth 4.0 while Nordic would help refine sensor chips.
more
06/09, 7:00pm
A range of options for a variety of uses
Three separate companies have recently debuted new products for the iPad 2, ranging from Joby's famous "Gorilla" line of hands-free positioning stands and cases with their emphasis on displaying the iPad, to cases from Marware and Qmadix -- the former emphasizing a thin, light but full-featured case, while the latter opts for a bluetooth keyboard-including model.
more
06/07, 12:50pm
Wireless headphones geared for Xbox 360
Turtle Beach has introduced the XP500, a wireless headset geared for Microsoft's Xbox 360. The design is based on the company's PX5 headset, but with a rechargeable Bluetooth Chat Adapter for the game console and matching green accents. Both products enable users to take advantage of Dolby 7.1-channel surround sound with customizable presets to manage the chat, game and microphone signals.
more
05/27, 12:00am
Noiseless keyboard, quality build a cut above
Sena Cases has launched their own entry into the increasingly-crowded case-that-doubles-as-a-bluetooth-keyboard for the iPad and iPad 2, made from genuine European leather in a variety of colors, and featuring an above-average built quality and silicon-based noiseless keyboard, perfect for meetings or class note-taking. Is it worth the extra cost for real leather? Is the case a snug fit, or is there wiggle room? Will the keyboard please the finicky typist? Our reviews editor Ilene Hoffman gives Sena the once-over in our review.
more
05/24, 9:30pm
Bluetooth audio or USB-to-HDMI devices
Computer desktop and notebook owners now have an extra option for adding a second external monitor to their machines, or connecting their computers to their HDTVs will full 1080p vision and sound -- or adding Bluetooth audio to non-BT receivers, courtesy two new devices from AV peripheral maker Kanex. The Kanex mLinq is a $99 USB to HDMI adapter, while the AirBlue lets users stream music from their portable bluetooth devices to car radios, receivers or anything with an audio input port.
more
05/18, 11:05pm
Home, auto devices work with iPad, iPhone, more
XtremeMac has announced several products combining Bluetooth streaming and charging for iOS devices, the InCharge Home BT and InCharge Auto BT. The two devices support hands-free, wireless connectivity with iPhones, iPads and the iPod touch. The home version plugs into a wall and connects to home audio gear via a 4-foot AUX cable. It then pairs with a Bluetooth-enabled iOS device, streaming music to the home system. It has a Bluetooth LED indicator and offers a 30-pin cable for 10-watt charging.
more
05/12, 11:30pm
Adds tactile keyboard via Bluetooth to iPhone
Nuu and its distribution partner Noetic have launched the Nuu MiniKey for iPhone 4 in North America, a few months after unveiling it in Europe. The case adds a slide-out physical keyboard to the iPhone via a Bluetooth connection, leaving all functions and connectors unblocked. Unlike most other similar cases, the MiniKey works with the iPhone's own antennas, uses keyboard backlighting and automatically goes to sleep when the iPhone enters standby mode.
more
