Bluetooth Core 6.1 Comes with Improved Privacy and Energy Efficiency via Randomized RPA Updates. It’s the First Release Under Bluetooth SIG’s New Semi-Annual Update Schedule
Bluetooth Core 6.1 is available. This update of the Bluetooth specification introduces, among other things, Bluetooth Randomized RPA Updates. This feature enhances user privacy and reduces device energy consumption. The publication fits within the new schedule of two updates per year, which SIG introduced in 2024.
Safer and More Efficient
Bluetooth Randomized RPA Updates provide random timing when switching Bluetooth addresses. This makes it more difficult to track devices over longer periods or link them to specific behaviors. At the same time, the new feature aims to increase energy efficiency. The processing of address changes now occurs within the Bluetooth controller itself, reducing the load on the rest of the system and lowering battery consumption.
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Bluetooth Core 6.1 Brings Improved Privacy and Energy Efficiency
Along with version 6.1, Bluetooth SIG is also introducing a new appendix to the communication guidelines. This appendix describes Bluetooth functionalities, profiles, and applications in a clear and unambiguous manner.
With the new semi-annual release schedule, Bluetooth SIG aims to shorten the time between specification updates. This should result in faster availability of features for developers and manufacturers. According to the organization, this will benefit the flexibility and responsiveness of the Bluetooth ecosystem.