Bluetooth Devices Tutorial (Android & IOS Guide)

Have you ever sat down and thought about how different discoveries have made our lives better. One of the major discoveries that have changed the lives of so many people is the use of radio waves. Under the radio waves, there are so many Bluetooth devices that have been developed to make our lives more meaningful.

Radio waves have been in use for over 100 years. They have improved the way people communicate. Without discovering the radio waves we might still be communicating using smoke, drums, horns, or sending pigeons with the message.

What the use of radio waves has managed is to link several devices that are either near or far away from each other. They have helped to fuel most of the technological advances seen today.

There are several Bluetooth devices available in the market today. However, it is prominently used in speakers. You can read more on their use in speakers in the following articles:

Best Bluetooth speakers under $200

The Best Bluetooth speakers under $100

Best Bluetooth speakers under $50

The Best Bluetooth speaker under $30

The best outdoor Bluetooth speakers

What is Bluetooth?

Bluetooth is a standardized wireless technology protocol that is used for receiving and sending data between fixed and mobile devices via a 2.4GHz wireless link.

Bluetooth thus provides a secure way of exchanging data securely at a low cost with minimal spending. Bluetooth devices can transmit and receive data wirelessly while at a short range.

Bluetooth uses short-wavelength UHF radio waves. It has been in use for quite some time by several devices most of which have patented some of the Bluetooth technologies.

The Bluetooth range is dependent on the power class. Therefore the transmission range for a Bluetooth device can range from 1 meter (3 feet) to 100 meters (300 feet). The most commonly used devices have a Bluetooth range of 5 to 30 meters depending on the class.

In most cases, the Bluetooth range is affected by several device’s internal factors and external factors. Some of the device’s elements that can influence the range include:

  • Antenna configuration
  • Battery conditions
  • The internal material variations
  • Quality of the receiving device

Some of the external factors that can influence the range include:

  • The air conditions between the devices
  • Obstacles between the devices such as walls
  • Reflecting materials between the devices

Which devices use Bluetooth?

Several devices use Bluetooth for communication. It is used in the following applications:

  • In communication between a smartphone/ tablet (Android or IOS based) and wireless speakers
  • Communication between a mobile phone device and a Bluetooth enabled car stereo system. Bluetooth in this instance can be used to send data and control the devices.
  • In wireless communication between a mobile phone and wireless handsfree headset. You can also use Bluetooth to control the devices.
  • In smart locks. Bluetooth is used to send commands to the wireless smart lock, thus helping in locking and unlocking the door. This application is used both in the house and also in cars.
  • Communication between a computer (laptop and PC) and Bluetooth enabled devices such as smartphones, tablets, fitness devices, and other computers.
  • You can use Bluetooth for communication between a personal computer and its input/output devices such as the mouse, keyboard, and printers.
  • In medical devices where there is communication between medical devices and computers

Consequently, these applications are just a sample of the devices that use Bluetooth in the world today. There are several other uses of Bluetooth devices that we can not finish describing today.

Several studies have shown that there is a higher risk of hacking Bluetooth devices. Hackers can thus access the device to determine their location, address, communication channel, and other features.

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Bluetooth vs Wi-Fi

On this site, we have in-depth described the uses of both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi serve primarily the same purpose in data transfer. They are thus able to set up networks of devices, in file transfer and printing.

The difference is that Wi-Fi is used for connecting devices to each other and the internet while Bluetooth is used to connect devices without the use of cables.

Both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth ensure that you don’t need cables to transmit data fast. Bluetooth creates a secure wireless personal area network (WPAN). In this network, devices can communicate at minimal cost as long as they are within the network.

To enter the Bluetooth network, you have to access and accept the other device. The same also happens to Wi-Fi.

What Bluetooth has achieved is to reliably and securely connect several devices. The convenience and functionality make it easy to move with the devices.

Wi-Fi although quite similar to Bluetooth, is primarily used to connect devices to the internet and each other through a Local Area Network (LAN) that are used by some companies.

Additionally, Wi-Fi is more regulated as compared to Bluetooth. Thus Bluetooth is developed as per the manufacturer’s proprietary specifications while Wi-Fi standards are regulated by IEEE.

Things to consider when buying Bluetooth audio devices

When buying Bluetooth devices, there are some things that you need to explore. Since several devices are compatible with Bluetooth, we will explore the factors to consider when buying speakers, headsets, car stereos, and other audio devices.

Factors to consider when buying a Bluetooth speaker and other Bluetooth devices

Wireless range

When buying a wireless Bluetooth audio device, it is important to check the range of the Bluetooth connection for that device. This is because you don’t want to be tied down in one spot when using the audio device to get a transmission from a smartphone or tablet.

A good device will have a good range thus meaning you can roam around with your phone or tablet without losing connection to the audio device.

Battery life

Most of Bluetooth Audio devices are portable. When getting the device except for the car stereo, kindly consider the battery life.

A good audio device will last for a few hours without the need for a recharge. Moreover, some Bluetooth devices serve as power banks to help recharge your phone or tablet when needed.

Durability

When shopping for an audio device with Bluetooth, it is crucial to check its durability. If it is a Bluetooth speaker that will be used outdoors, you need to get one that can withstand the harsh environment. Thus being waterproof and dustproof can go a long way in ensuring your device is durable.

In addition, these audio devices must be able to withstand a few falls. These shock-proof devices will give you a longer service.

Audio performance

Since you are buying the device for a purpose, it is paramount to check the audio performance. This means the device must be well-balanced, have good bass, and is audible.

Consider the devices must provide a crisp clear sound. This is defined as having detailed mids and well-balanced highs and good bass.

Portability

Depending on the function of the audio device, it is a factor to consider. This is important for all the devices that will be used on the go.

If you want a wireless speaker or even headsets, getting a portable one is crucial for your satisfaction.

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The final thought

Getting to know how Bluetooth operates will help you to use your devices to their full potential.

As you are getting your Bluetooth devices, it is prudent to check the features above to ensure you get a device that will serve your purpose.