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What is a Bluetooth lock?

October 31, 2018
What is a Bluetooth lock?

Hmm? WHAT?? Sorry I couldn’t hear you over my Bluetooth speaker. Let me just check my Bluetooth smartwatch and then I’ll be right with you…

It seems like everything has Bluetooth in it these days. Even security manufacturers are getting in on the action. But what is Bluetooth, and how is it being utilised in security?

What is a Bluetooth lock?

Developed in 1994 (making it ancient by most smart home protocol standards), Bluetooth is a wireless communication protocol that enables data exchange between Bluetooth enabled devices over a short distance. Manufacturers can’t get enough of Bluetooth – it’s one of the go-to technologies for products where a cable connection just won’t do the trick.

Bluetooth has one key advantage over Wi-Fi; it’s low power consumption. This makes it ideal for battery operated devices such as mobile phones, wireless speakers, cameras, fitness trackers, smartwatches and small electronic items such as Noke. And now the security industry is getting in on the act, with a broad range of Bluetooth enabled smart security products now including deadbolts, mortice locks, padlocks and storage boxes.

Why the name 'Bluetooth'?

The name Bluetooth isn't a tech word, nor is it an acronym. The name derives from a Nordic King from more than a millennia ago. King Harald "Bluetooth" Gormsson united the tribes in present day Denmark and Norway into one single kingdom in 958 AD. A rather fitting name as Bluetooth aims to unite different types of electronic devices under the one protocol. Oh, and because the King had a dead tooth with a dark blue/grey colour, he was then given the nickname "Bluetooth".

Did you know that 'Bluetooth' was originally meant to be a project name or placeholder for this protocol! It was up to the creators' (Intel, Ericcson and Nokia) marketing departments to come up with a much more catchy name. But nothing ever came close and here we are! A name that everyone recognises in the use of short range wireless technology.



It’s worth remembering that no matter how “smart” your lock is, if it isn’t installed correctly, it won’t protect your home. We recommend you engage the skills of a Master Locksmith to install your smart lock is performing correctly.