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Amid a revolution in communication technologies, we are thrilled to experience new technologies that invalidate or complement yesterday's technologies at an amazing pace. Wibree wireless technology has undoubtedly joined the league in the personal device space.

Wibree is a short-range, wireless/radio technology that is built into small digital devices, where ultra-low power consumption, low cost, and small size are critical requirements. Developed by the Nokia Research Center, this technology provides Personal Area Network (PAN) connectivity among small personal devices like watches, mobile phones, medical devices, gaming, and sports sensors among others within a 10 m range and with a data rate of 1 Mbps. This is the first technology to wirelessly link host devices like mobile phones or PCs with small, button-cell battery power devices to transfer both voice and data. It basically allows voice and data transfer between small devices and Bluetooth devices; adds minimal cost and size to Bluetooth devices like cell phones and PCs; and offers smaller and lower cost option for small personal devices.

Wibree works in two alternative modes-stand-alone and dual mode. In the stand-alone mode, it is designed to work with applications that require ultra-low power consumption, small size, and low cost as key features in small digital devices. It can also work with Bluetooth devices in dual-mode option wherein Wibree functionality is integrated with Bluetooth.

Complementary to Bluetooth
When the Wibree technology was introduced in 2006, it generated a hot debate on whether this new technology will invalidate the Bluetooth technology. Both allow small personal devices to communicate via short-range wireless signals and both use the same frequency-2.4 GHz. But the only major difference is Wibree's ultra-low power consumption that makes it a winning edge technology over Bluetooth.

Current Scenario
Since both Wibree and Bluetooth use the same frequency and do almost the same functions, the duo has made a strategy to ride on each other. In June 2007, Nokia announced that the Wibree specification will be integerated with Bluetooth specifications, which is now underway. It is expected to be completed by June 2008 and then it will be launched in the market for use. This will round out Bluetooth technology's wireless PAN and considerably strengthen its ability to provide wireless connectivity for smaller digital devices. So, Wibree can work both in the stand-alone mode as well as dual-mode with Bluetooth.

Revenue Potential
With its energy smart feature and small size, it can extend the role mobile devices play in the consumers' lives, increasing revenue potential in the small devices market segments. With Bluetooth technology already having a following of more than 2,500 companies, Wibree's stand-alone implementation will add to wider adoption in the small digital device space in India and worldwide. On the office and mobile accessories front, its expanded battery life feature will satisfy Bluetooth users. In sports and healthcare segment, sensors with Wibree technology implanted in human body, shoes, and other fitness tools can collect data and transmit information to mobile phones or PCs. Wibree built into entertainment devices provides wireless interaction possibilities, offering enhanced user experience. Given its immense utility in various segments, Wibree will benefit products that make the technology as in-built. Hope, it has a great future.

Kannan K
kannan@cybermedia.co.in