The market for devices using Bluetooth wireless interoperability could exceed $2bn per year by 2004, according to a new report. The study, conducted by Allied Business Intelligence Inc, predicts that growth will be driven by a rapid decline in Bluetooth module cost from $30 today to $5 in a few years. Bluetooth enables virtually any electronic device to establish a connection with any other over a distance of 10 meters or less. Micro-transceivers will broadcast at the 2.4GHz ISM band, taking advantage of the IEEE’s new 802.11 specification for wireless LANs. It’s hoped that future versions of the technology will extend its range to 30 meters. Ericsson, Nokia, IBM, Toshiba and Intel support the Bluetooth Special Interest Group. á
