Bluetooth Classic
Bluetooth Classic, also referred to as Bluetooth Basic Rate/Enhanced Data Rate (BR/EDR), is still widely used, because it used to offer significantly higher data transfer rates (e.g. for audio streaming) in the past. Since Bluetooth 5.2 was introduced, there is no real reason to choose Bluetooth Classic over BLE anymore, since new features are only expected to be build for BLE from now on.
grandcentrix Insights: While Bluetooth Classic still has slightly higher data rates (3MB/s instead of 2MB/s), BLE supports more advanced communication topologies, including periodic and extendend advertising, which are not available in Bluetooth Classic. This allows BLE to be used in more complex IoT environments and for applications that require large-scale device networks or smart building automation. Bluetooth Classic also comes with a few Usability drawbacks, since it is for example not possible for iOS apps to establish a connection from within the app itself. At grandcentrix we recommend the usage of BLE in almost all cases, with WiFi as the connectivity option for high bandwidth communication. Bluetooth Classic is not expected to get any new features and should only be chosen if there is a very good reason for it (e.g. old devices in the field). Bluetooth Classic is called “Classic” for a reason.
WiFi (ad hoc)
Connecting directly to a device via WiFi is another common connectivity option. This does not require an existing local network infrastructure. Connecting to the device via WiFi can be done from within an app, providing high-bandwidth data transfer useful for sending large files, accessing Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs) hosted on the device, and more.
grandcentrix Insight: Contrary to common belief, directly connecting a smartphone to a device’s offline WiFi network does not cut off internet access. With proper firmware configuration, a phone can communicate with a device via WiFi and use mobile data simultaneously.
Local Network
If two devices are connected to the same local network, it is possible for them to communicate without the necessity of an internet connection. This form of connectivity enables the user to be anywhere in the vicinity as long as the local network is available.
grandcentrix Insight: Professional local networks are often configured in a very restricted way, which might cause a bad user experience for end customers. It is important to use common ports and guide the user through potentially necessary changes to the firewall during onboarding.
Remote Connectivity
When a device is connected to the internet via mobile data or a local network, remote communication through a backend is possible. This is ideal for users who need to control devices from anywhere, providing unmatched convenience. This type of connectivity requires the connected device itself and the smartphone, tablet or PC to have internet access to function.
grandcentrix Insight: Remote Connectivity relies on a good reception on both devices. Poor cellular reception can cause latency and needs to be handled in the User Interface accordingly to prevent confusion. Remote connectivity also comes with a higher security risk, as the device is accessible from the internet. Therefore, a security-by-design approach is especially important with this connectivity option.
Near Field Communication (NFC)
Near Field Communication (NFC) is a short-range wireless technology that allows devices to communicate when they are within a few centimeters of each other. It is commonly used for contactless payments, light data transfer, and device setup. Common use cases for NFC in the IoT sector are configuring parameters or easy connectivity setups (Bluetooth pairing, join WiFi, etc.).
grandcentrix Insight: NFC uses the electromagnetic field generated by an active NFC device, to power passive chips. This means it can configure or set up devices even when they are turned off, making it ideal for pre-installation settings or initial configurations. NFC is supported by both iOS and Android smartphones but is not available on iPads or laptops.
Ultra-Wideband (UWB)
Ultra-Wideband (UWB) is used for determining the precise position and distance of a smartphone relative to a device. Since it is not used for data transfer, it should be seen as an honorable mention in this list. It enhances the user experience by identifying user intent through proximity detection and can significantly improve device interaction.
grandcentrix Insight: UWB is the technology behind Apple’s AirTags, which are a great demo to showcase the precision that is possible with UWB. Aside from finding devices, UWB is very useful to determine on which side of a device a user is standing, or if a user is approaching. This can be used to trigger different actions, like automatically opening a door (access control) or showing relevant information on a smartphone.
Upcoming connectivity options
While there are many standards out there that could be potentially useful for connected devices, we rely on smartphone and PC manufacturers to include said technology in their hardware to make it accessible to a broad audience.
One promising connectivity option is Thread support on Smartphones. Apple and Google are working on supporting Thread with the newest generation of flagship phones. The iPhone 15 Pro is the first phone to include a Thread radio.
Summary
In today’s interconnected world, there are numerous options for connecting smartphones, tablets, and PCs to other devices for control and configuration. Choosing the right connectivity technology depends on specific requirements and use cases. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is ideal for energy-efficient, direct connections and supports complex networks through BLE Mesh. WiFi connections are excellent for high-bandwidth tasks like transferring large files or accessing interfaces. NFC and UWB provide unique benefits for close-range interactions and precise positioning.
The development of new connectivity options like Thread demonstrates that the market is constantly evolving. To ensure the best user experience, it is crucial to carefully analyze individual needs and select the technology that best fits the specific use case. This applies to both local and remote connections, each with its own set of advantages and challenges. As hardware and software integration continues to advance, new opportunities will emerge to further enhance connectivity and user-friendliness.
In today’s interconnected world, connecting a smartphone or tablet to another device through a companion app has become a well-established method for setup, configuration, and control of hardware. Web apps provide another versatile option, allowing users to access and control devices from laptops and PCs. There are various options for establishing and maintaining these connections, each suited to different scenarios and user needs. Deciding on the best connectivity option for a product must be done on a case-by-case basis, considering the specific requirements and context.