A New Outlook on Bluetooth Post-CES 2026

During my experiences at CES, the conversations I had with the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) were by far the most enlightening. While Bluetooth technology is omnipresent in our gadgets, its complexities remain a mystery beyond its basic function of enabling wireless connectivity.

Discussions delved into advancements such as Channel Sounding and the imminent Bluetooth 6.0 update featuring Auracast. The significant insight I gained was that our general understanding of Bluetooth needs reevaluation. Below, I explain.

Bluetooth 6.2: Anticipating Enhanced Capabilities

The Bluetooth SIG has unveiled version 6.2, showcasing enhancements like Reduced Connection Latency for ultra-responsive peripheral gadgets and Robust Channel Sounding for superior security. Yet many devices, particularly peripherals—earbuds, gaming accessories—fail to deliver the expected performance. Why the disparity between promise and reality? It's largely due to manufacturer choices.

Despite having the latest iteration, devices may not feature key updates. This selectivity on the manufacturer's part means that the version number alone shouldn't compel you—features may be absent despite the version.

Channel Sounding: The Discrepancy in Practice

Channel Sounding was a much-touted capability in Bluetooth 6.0, designed to democratize device-tracking features. However, many products featuring the latest Bluetooth tech have yet to incorporate Channel Sounding, largely hinging on manufacturing decisions.

Despite these obstacles, certain applications, showcased at CES 2026, are adopting this tech. Motorola’s Moto Tag 2 and Bauer Products’ NE-CS smart RV lock are examples of how Channel Sounding enhances device discovery speed and security.

While the vision of a seamless 'Find My Device' ecosystem remains distant, the dawn of Auracast in 2022, with full utilization expected by 2026, hints at gradual progress in this direction.

The Spotlight is on Auracast

Audio tech enthusiasts might find Auracast particularly transformative. This innovation allows audio from one source to be wirelessly shared with countless receivers. Devices acquired recently, like headphones or earbuds, may already be suitable for Auracast with a simple software update.

More gadgets incorporating Auracast are entering the market, offering diverse broadcasting options. With Bluetooth widely embedded in audio gear, Auracast can facilitate avoiding brand exclusivity, allowing, for example, a smartphone to relay music to multiple Bluetooth speakers simultaneously.

From connecting personal listening devices to public sound systems, like in airports, to enabling shared audio experiences between friends, Auracast's potential is significant. Many Android devices are integrating these capabilities, serving as hubs for audio broadcasting and connectivity.

Expect a broader adoption of Auracast in the coming year, with many Bluetooth-enabled products already embracing the technology.