WIBREE : Wider Adoption

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