New Wi Fi Specification Offers Bluetooth-Like Device Connectivity

It looks as though electronics’ spec sheets might get a little shorter in the future. A new Wi Fi spec called Wi Fi Direct was announced today by the Wi Fi Alliance. Wi Fi Direct will allow Wi Fi-enabled devices to recognize and connect directly to each other without the need for a router, essentially encroaching upon Bluetooth’s territory. Wi Fi Direct will enable devices such as headphones, cell phones and laptops to connect with one another device-to-device or with multiple devices.  It promises to provide a seamless way of linking devices. The technology is said to work in a range of about a hundred meters.

Since Bluetooth is the current standard for wirelessly connecting devices such as headsets and phones together, Wi Fi Direct could potentially eliminate the need for Bluetooth in many devices. Since Bluetooth can’t replace Wi Fi and Wi Fi Direct could serve the same purpose as Bluetooth, we could very well see manufacturers incorporating the new technology to cut out Bluetooth and simplify manufacturing. Devices featuring the spec could also be used as Wi Fi access points, which could eliminate the need for some routers. The Wi Fi Alliance will begin certifying Wi Fi Direct devices next year. It should be interesting to see how it affects the industry. [via CNET]