Welcome back. This is the second part of my discussion on Bluetooth.
Getting started:
If you want to connect your Bluetooth devices, you first have to “pair” them. In simple terms, the mobile phone or headset searches for available devices to connect to. Once found, you have to enter a password acceptable to the other device. In the majority of cases, the password is 0000 (four zeros). Paired devices are recognized whenever they come in range of each other, and if authorized can be automatically connected to each other.
How secure is Bluetooth?
The ease of connection by Bluetooth is also a potential security threat to your data. If you send sensitive data over a wireless connection, you need to take precautions. This goes for any form of wireless connectivity.
Thankfully the Bluetooth manufacturers have made security a priority. You can set up trusted devices that do not ask your permission to attach. If a device is not on your list, then you will receive a request to attach. This will protect you from unauthorized devices seeking and attaching to your computer, PDA or mobile phone. Another method of securing your phone or pc is to ensure it is non-discoverable. This will also assist in preserving battery life.
Speaking of battery life – having Bluetooth turned on in your mobile phone or PC will have an affect on your talk and standby times. If you are not going to be using Bluetooth for a period of time – turn it off.
One last word on security. There has been a lot written about “bluejacking” and “bluebugging”. Bluejacking occurs when someone sends your pc or phone a text message to devices within range, and hopefully getting accepted and logged into your device. The sender can then start messaging your device as their name is now on your contact list. Bluebugging is where they attempt to remotely control your phone. I have not experienced this so I cannot comment on whether this has ever happened.
What’s new and cool in Bluetooth?
In recent weeks, I have been using a range of Bluetooth devices. In the car, I have the Motorola Portable Bluetooth Hands-Free Speaker T305. This is a second generation portable Bluetooth device from Motorola – that clips on your sun visor and allows you to have the benefits of an in-car hands free kit without the installation. Giving you up to 14 hours talk time, and 14 days of standby, the T305 has echo and noise reduction technology to minimize background noise and deliver clear audio. It also has a car charger included in the packaging.
LG Electronics have three new portable hands free devices – the HBM 710, HBM 550 and HBM 730. All three of these portable hands free devices are great. Easy to use, fashionable, and provide very clear audio – for both the caller and the receiver. Look out for these when they hit the market.
Motorola’s T605 in-car Bluetooth car kit is one of the best I have used. Being wired into the car’s sound system, music stored on my mobile phone is streamed throughout the speakers – giving a clear and rich sound not apparent with using some audio streaming attachments to my iPod. When a call is received, the music is automatically paused and the call is available to answer. Upon completion of the call, the music resumes. Very neat and certainly worth a look at.
Ten Technologies naviPlay Bluetooth Stereo Adapter (left) for iPod tops my list of great devices for the month. Coming with five different sized clips, my second generation iPod has a new lease of life. Imagine – no more white wires!
I now sit at my desk listening to music streamed to the Motorola S805 stereo headset. The S805 is amazing. First impression is that you are about to use a jack hammer on a building site. However, once you put them on, and hear the music – you forget that you are wearing them. And if you are low on power, or want to use them without Bluetooth, attach the lead and they become a “traditional” wired headset.
In closing, if you are considering moving to Bluetooth, make sure your handset supports the accessory you are choosing. If possible, chose an accessory from the same manufacturer as your handset – it reduces the risk of any incompatibility, and makes recharging easier (one less charger to carry around!)... and always remember road safety when driving and using your mobile phone.
Until next time, thanks for reading.
Thanks to Motorola and LG Electronics for the loan of these devices.