The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), which sets standards for the Bluetooth networking protocol, approved a new mesh networking standard that could solidify use of Bluetooth as an option for lighting control systems and broader IoT networks. The new mesh capability enables many-to-many (m:m) device communications and is optimized for creating large-scale device networks, said the Kirkland, WA-based SIG. It’s designed for building automation, sensor networks and other IoT solutions where tens, huge numbers of devices may need to communicate with one another.
“By adding support for mesh networking, the Bluetooth member community is continuing a long history of focused innovation to help new, up-and-coming markets flourish,” said Mark Powell, executive director for Bluetooth SIG, Inc. “In the same way the connected device market experienced rapid growth after the introduction of Bluetooth Low Energy, we believe Bluetooth mesh networking can play a vital role in helping early stage markets, such as building automation and wireless sensor networks, experience more rapid growth.”