Key Takeaways
1. Bluetooth 6 was revealed last September and is expected to see wider adoption throughout this year, with early compatibility in devices like the Xiaomi 15 and Sony Xperia 1 VII.
2. The new version is making its way into headphones, with products like the Edifier Doo Ace already available, but uncertainty remains about its inclusion in upcoming devices like the Apple iPhone 17.
3. Bluetooth 6 introduces significant enhancements in latency, positioning, energy efficiency, and security, benefiting users in fast-paced scenarios like gaming and streaming.
4. The Isochronous Adaptation Layer (ISO-AL) allows audio data to be sent in smaller packets, reducing latency to as low as 20 ms, with the new LC3Plus codec potentially achieving 7 ms.
5. Bluetooth Channel Sounding improves distance measurements for better device pairing and reduces interference in crowded environments, while the new version is also more power-efficient, extending battery life.
Bluetooth 6 was revealed in September of the previous year, yet it typically takes some time for a new standard to be widely integrated into devices. For instance, when transitioning from version 4 to version 5, it took about a year before devices with the newer standard were readily available.
Widespread Adoption
This trend also applies to Bluetooth 6, so one can reasonably expect that the new version will become more prominent over the course of this year. Xiaomi was almost the first to release a compatible device, particularly the Xiaomi 15 and the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. Additionally, the Xiaomi Poco F7 Ultra supports Bluetooth 6, and Sony has also joined with its Xperia 1 VII.
Headphones and Other Devices
Bluetooth 6 is starting to make its way into headphones as well. Sadly, Edifier has just launched its Doo Ace on-ear headphones, which are priced at about $30 in China for now. However, it’s likely that many more manufacturers will introduce new products later this year. There is some doubt about whether the upcoming Apple iPhone 17, expected in September, will be equipped with Bluetooth 6, despite some initial hope.
What’s New in Bluetooth 6?
So, what does this new version bring to the table? To put it simply, enhancements in latency, positioning, energy efficiency, and security. Users will probably appreciate the reduced latency, especially in fast-paced interactions such as gaming or when enjoying movies. This is all thanks to the newly introduced Isochronous Adaptation Layer (ISO-AL). Audio data can now be divided into smaller packets, allowing for quicker distribution across channels. Latency is expected to drop to as low as 20 ms, and with the new LC3Plus codec, it could even reach 7 ms. Currently, a typical range is between 50-200 ms. The new codec also supports better audio quality, offering up to 96 kHz and 32 bits.
Enhanced Features
Bluetooth Channel Sounding also provides more accurate distance measurements; devices can find each other with an accuracy of up to 50 cm, making pairing much simpler. This will also ease the process of switching between devices, such as when a smartphone, laptop, and TV are all connected to the same headphones. Devices using BT 6 will face fewer issues in crowded environments and will be less prone to interference.
Additionally, Bluetooth 6 is designed to be more efficient. The new version reportedly uses less power, which should help extend the battery life of devices that are compatible.
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