What Is Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE) and the Most Common Uses in 2024

Wireless technologies have become an indispensable part of our daily lives, revolutionizing the way we communicate, work, and engage with the world around us. From smartphones and laptops to smart homes and wearable devices, these technologies have empowered us to stay connected and access information from anywhere, at any time.  

Among the various wireless technologies, Bluetooth® Low Energy stands out. This technology, which is prevalent in many aspects of our lives, continues to evolve. Consequently, if you are considering developing a wireless device, Bluetooth Low Energy® is certainly worth exploring. In this article, we will delve into its features and applications.

What is Bluetooth^® Low Energy?

Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE) is a wireless communication protocol specifically designed for low-power devices that necessitate extended battery life. Introduced as part of the Bluetooth® 4.0 specification in 2010, BLE has since become a widely accepted standard in the Internet of Things (IoT) industry. Thanks to its low power consumption, BLE allows devices to be in operation for months or even years on a single coin cell battery.

BLE holds several advantages over traditional Bluetooth®, including quicker connection times, reduced power consumption, and enhanced interoperability with other wireless protocols. As the demand for low power, connected devices escalates, BLE’s popularity is projected to continue its upward trajectory.

The most common uses of Bluetooth^® Low Energy

Asset Tracking

BLE technology can be used for tracking and locating assets, including equipment, vehicles, and even individuals.

Examples of Devices

• BLE Beacons: Small devices that emit a signal that can be captured by mobile apps or gateways to track the location of items. They are used, for example, in retail for tracking the movement of goods or in hospitals for tracking medical equipment.

• BLE Tags: Small, lightweight tags that can be attached to valuable items or shipments. Using a mobile app or another BLE receiver, the location of these items can be tracked in real-time.

• BLE Smart Key Finders: Small devices that can be attached to keys or other small items. Using a mobile app, you can find out where the item is located or activate a sound signal to make finding it easier.

• BLE Inventory Management Systems: BLE-based systems for real-time inventory tracking. These systems can automatically track the movement of goods in a warehouse, determine their location, and inform about inventory status.

Smart Home

Smart home devices enabled with BLE technology can be controlled and monitored using a smartphone or another wireless device.

Examples of Devices

• Smart Locks: Locks that can be controlled via a mobile app or home automation. They allow users to unlock doors without keys and monitor who and when entered the house.

• Sensors and Detectors: Various sensors, such as motion sensors, humidity and temperature sensors, or smoke detectors. These sensors communicate with a central hub or directly with a mobile app for home automation and monitoring.

• Smart Lighting: Fixtures and bulbs that can be controlled via BLE to adjust brightness, colors, and timing.

Industrial

BLE-supported sensors and devices can provide real-time data on industrial processes, facilitating more efficient and effective monitoring and control.

Examples of Devices

• BLE Industrial Tags: Tags attached to industrial machines and equipment to monitor their maintenance. They record data on operation, wear, and maintenance, allowing for efficient maintenance planning and fault prevention.

• Industrial Sensors: Sensors for monitoring the condition of machines, measuring temperature, humidity, pressure, or vibrations in industrial environments. These sensors can send real-time data for predictive maintenance and operational optimization.

• Employee Trackers: Wearable devices that monitor the location and safety of employees.

Fitness and Personal Safety

Bluetooth® Low Energy technology enables the development of innovative devices in the field of medicine and wearable electronics, which can improve healthcare, fitness, and overall quality of life.

Examples of Devices

• Fitness Watches: Watches and bracelets that offer features for tracking physical activity, heart rate, sleep, and other health parameters.

• Smart Clothing: Clothing equipped with sensors that can monitor various physiological parameters such as heart rate, respiratory rate, or muscle activity. For example, smart shirts with integrated sensors.

• Emergency Devices: Wearable devices that allow users to quickly send a help signal or share their location with family or friends in case of an emergency.

• Child and Pet Tracking: Small devices attached to keychains, collars, or clothing that allow tracking of children or pets and alert parents or owners if they move out of a designated area.