The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) has announced the launch of Bluetooth 6.0 which includes several improvements and security features. The new features of the standard represent the first major update to Bluetooth in many years. There is one in particular that stands out, and it is aimed at improving Find My networks.
According to the SIG publication, Bluetooth 6.0 will integrate a feature called Channel explorationwhich can determine the distance between two objects with great accuracy. Channel sensing allows one device to determine the presence, distance, and direction of another device with an accuracy of a few centimeters. This feature will improve performance when using the Find My network to locate your iPhone or any other compatible gadget.
The SIG white paper mentions that the accuracy of the measurements will depend on environmental conditions and how the application layer uses the Bluetooth channel polling feature. The phase-based measurement method can measure distances of up to 150 meters before discrepancies arise, so the technology relies on round-trip synchronization, which calculates the time it takes for data to travel between two devices.
Among the features of the Bluetooth channel probe we find a measurement method based on phases and Multi-layered security to prevent attacks on wireless range. The latter becomes relevant in digital keys, as it will reduce the risk that a third party will be able to open the doors by intercepting the signal.
Bluetooth 6.0 will also improve protection against hacking
In the attack “man in the middle” a hacker can trick a device into thinking it is trustworthy and perform an action. This is achieved by substitution through manipulation of the signal or content.
“For example, in a keyless entry system, if a malicious device can trick a door lock into thinking that a corresponding trusted wireless access card is close enough for the door to automatically unlock, an unauthorized party could gain entry,” the document states.
Channel probing in Bluetooth 6.0 reduces risks by using random transmission patterns, RF signal analysis techniques, and protection against symbol spoofing.
The association added that the technical flexibility of this specification allows Developers can prioritize the aspect that interests them.For example, when using digital keys to open a car or hotel room, security will be more important when polling channels. Meanwhile, Find My devices may prioritize location accuracy.
While the achievements seem attractive, the truth is that Bluetooth 6.0 is not coming anytime soon. The specification is ready and manufacturers only need to implement it in their products. We will have to wait a few years for this to happen.
Source: Hiper Textual
I’m Ben Stock, a highly experienced and passionate journalist with a career in the news industry spanning more than 10 years. I specialize in writing content for websites, including researching and interviewing sources to produce engaging articles. My current role is as an author at Gadget Onus, where I mainly cover the mobile section.
