Virtually all current mobile devices, smartphones and tablets include Bluetooth connectivity among their features. Although this form of communication has lost some importance, the standard continues to improve and could be crucial in the not too distant future, for which it is being prepared. The version 4.2 incorporates to the standard some improvements in the sections of transfer speed, privacy and connectivity, since compatible devices will be able to access the Internet through home routers.
The vast majority of smartphones and tablets currently use Bluetooth version 4.0, which was a significant leap with Low Energy that facilitated its use on mobile devices. Despite this, the standard continues to evolve and Bluetooth 4.1 was introduced about a year ago, improving compatibility with Bluetooth devices. LTE communications and it offered greater flexibility to developers, as well as added an IPv6 communications channel.
Many of these changes were aimed at future smart homes, where Bluetooth will be a fundamental part. With version 4.2 they continue to advance in this regard and those compatible devices will be able to Internet access via compatible home routers IPv6 which should facilitate as well as reduce costs when automating a home since it will not be necessary to use dedicated Bluetooth centers.
Security is another aspect that has been reviewed, with new and improved algorithms of encryption and hash codes that will better shield wireless communications from possible attacks. In the same way that it will be more difficult to locate and send notifications to Bluetooth devices that are in a nearby area with the new protection against beacons.
Finally, the transfer speed will be up to 2,5 times higher with Bluetooth 4.2 and Bluetooth lowenergy, used by the vast majority of current smartwatches, it improves their efficiency. Now "only" need for manufacturers to start using the new standard since we have verified with version 4.1 that the fact of being available is not enough for companies to implement it on their devices.
Source: PCWorld