A recent update to the Google Chrome browser now makes it capable of interacting with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) devices using the Web Bluetooth API on Android, Chrome OS and Mac. This means that with a few lines of code, developers are now able to make connections to Bluetooth devices such as printers or LED displays.
One of the samples that's been showcased so far depicts a mobile device connecting to a BLE-enabled heart rate monitor over the Google Chrome browser. More examples and demos of this new feature at play can be found on GitHub.
This new Google Chrome feature opens up a lot of opportunity for streamlined experiences to be created on the web, in retail spaces that integrate BLE devices and beyond.
Bluetooth-Connected Browsers
The Google Chrome Browser Can Now Interact with BLE Devices
Trend Themes
1. Web Bluetooth Interaction - The Google Chrome browser now allows interaction with BLE devices via Web Bluetooth API opening new integration possibilities for BLE devices on websites.
2. Ble-enabled Web Retail - Turn retail spaces in BLE-enabled store with online experience: BLE web browser integration allows BLE meters, cameras, etc. to transmit data to users' devices in retail environments, delivering customized content.
3. Mobile Health with BLE - Ability to connect to BLE devices, such as heart rate monitors, will enable easier and more mobile health monitoring, introducing new opportunities for connected health and Internet of Things innovation.
Industry Implications
1. Retail - Retail stores can integrate Web Bluetooth API to enable interaction with BLE devices and connect to user devices for a personalized in-store experience.
2. Healthcare - Mobile health monitoring has been a growing trend for years, enabled by BLE, and integrating this with web browsers will make it easier for users to access and view their health data reliably and quickly.
3. Internet of Things - With BLE devices becoming more common in IoT, integrating this into web browsers could exponentially increase the number of people and businesses creating IoT devices and opportunities for companies to enter and compete in this field.