Windows plays key role for Bluetooth

Microsoft's decision to support Bluetooth in Windows XP could aid usability if it leads to a consistent client interface

Bluetooth was given a boost at the end of last year with Microsoft's announcement that it would support the wireless standard in its Windows XP operating system. But that support may only cover a limited number of device types at first.

Windows support is crucial if Bluetooth devices are to be used with laptop and desktop PCs. Currently, Bluetooth support depends on the system or adapter vendor supplying a proprietary software stack to let the PC talk to other devices. Some examples seen by IT Week have proved clumsy to use and work differently from each other, so a single standard Windows interface could enhance usability.

At the Bluetooth developer conference last December, Microsoft said it would sup-port the wireless standard in an update to Windows XP. But it will only offer a handful of profiles, which define how devices work with Bluetooth for specific applications and define which protocols are used.

Microsoft said it would initially support device discovery, dial-up networking over mobile phones, printing, wireless input devices, and personal area networking.

Neil Laver, Microsoft's Windows marketing manager, said his firm would provide the infrastructure, but that it was down to developers to come up with applications. "For things like synchronising contacts with a phone, we'll provide the plumbing but not the program," he said. A software development kit (SDK) to aid the creation of Bluetooth applications and utilities is due soon.

Nick Hunn, whose firm TDK Systems is working with Microsoft on Bluetooth support, said Microsoft is doing things the right way. "[It] has learned from USB, and decided to support only things that are important for corporate laptops, and to make them rock solid," he said.

But Microsoft's omission of audio and voice support was unfortunate. "Voice will be important for Bluetooth, because it lets you integrate wireless headsets into voice over IP (VoIP)," Hunn said, blaming Microsoft's stance on the lower status of mobile phones in the US. "We need European developers to drive things forward here."

Laver said Bluetooth support would be an add-on for XP, rather than a point release or service pack. "We wouldn't make it an integral part of the operating system yet because not everyone will want it," he said.

The add-on will be available online via the Windows Update service and is likely to be bundled with Bluetooth kit.

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