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Bluetooth Technology In Your Car

Bluetooth-enabled electronic devices have been available to the public for years. The technology continues to develop, making these tools more powerful and providing their users with expanding flexibility. When the technology was first introduced, it was primarily focused upon relieving workspaces of the multiple cables used to connect computer components. Today, the standard is used to create wireless connections between PDAs, cell phones, car stereos, and a host of other gadgets. Below, we’ll explore how Bluetooth is integrated within cars. Plus, I’ll explain how the technology will likely become more widespread due to driver safety legislation.

Compatibility Standards

In 1998, Ericsson led a group of companies (including IBM, Nokia, and Intel) to develop standards for the technology. Today, over 4,000 companies are members of that group. As long as each company’s electronic components support Bluetooth compatibility standards, those components will be able to communicate with each other without requiring a wired connection. There’s no monthly service charge or subscription premiums to pay for the service. Each component simply needs the appropriate chip.

Driver Safety Laws

Due to an increasing number of traffic accidents related to cell phone usage, new driver safety laws are emerging. State and federal governments have been aggressively pursuing legislation to limit the use of cell phones on the road. Bluetooth-enabled phones and vehicles are perfectly positioned to provide drivers with the convenience of taking calls while complying with the law.

Incoming and outgoing calls can be routed through vehicles’ stereo systems. The driver doesn’t have to handle a cell phone at all; instead, they can talk freely without using their hands. New vehicles are often equipped with Bluetooth capabilities at the factory. If you’re thinking of buying a new car, the option will only cost a few extra hundred dollars.

Aftermarket Installation

A lot of car manufacturers have been slow to incorporate the technology within their vehicles. And many of the automakers who do include the option at the factory don’t do so for their entire inventory. If you’ve purchased a new or used vehicle that isn’t equipped with this feature, you can have an aftermarket installation done. Companies such as Motorola sell kits that can be installed for less than $300. Also, ask your wireless provider whether your cell phone has Bluetooth capabilities. If it doesn’t, buying an in-car aftermarket kit won’t do much good.

As more states adopt laws that prohibit motorists from using their cell phones while driving, having the ability to talk hands-free will become more important. The key thing to remember is that it’s easy to have your car equipped with this functionality, even if you’re driving an older model. It may cost a few hundred dollars, but the convenience is worth the price.

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