Bluetooth 5, the next version of the wireless connection technology, has been unveiled by the Bluetooth SIG (Special Interest Group).

Due at some point between late 2016 and early 2017, the new version promises significantly increased range, speed, and broadcast messaging capacity. Compared to Bluetooth Low Energy, it promises quadruple the range, double the speed, and nine times the broadcast capacity.

The SIG says this will make it possible to create IoT networks that stretch across entire homes or buildings on Bluetooth, as well opening up the possibilities for beacons.

“Bluetooth 5 will transform the way people experience the IoT by making it something that happens simply and seamlessly around them,” said Bluetooth SIG executive director Mark Powell. “Increasing operation range will enable connections to IoT devices that extend far beyond the walls of a typical home, while increasing speed supports faster data transfers and software updates for devices. And now with the ability to broadcast a much richer set of information, Bluetooth 5 will make beacons, location awareness, and other connectionless services an even more relevant part of an effortless and seamless IoT experience”

According to the SIG, there are currently 8.2bn Bluetooth products in use, and the technology is expected to be in more than a third of all installed IoT devices by 2020.

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