According to IMS Research, Bluetooth technology shipment figures now exceed three million units per week. This news comes just three months after the technology met the two million units per week milestone. This shows that the Bluetooth market is experiencing a continued period of significant growth.

Bluetooth wireless technology is supported and used in products by over 3000 companies including BMW, IBM, HP, Logitech, Microsoft, Motorola, Nokia, PalmOne, Sony Ericsson and Toyota. The short-range wireless technology has made its way into products with strong, household brands such as the wireless photo kiosk available in Eckerd and CVS stores across the globe, and the wireless MP3/pedometer by Nike and Philips. This month, Ford Motor Company selected the US carrier Sprint to provide Bluetooth enabled phones to work with hands-free systems in its North American automobiles.

"Bluetooth wireless technology is and will continue to be an integral part and a key enabling technology for Sony Ericsson's three key application areas; imaging, entertainment and connectivity. We have one of the widest portfolios of Bluetooth enabled mobile phones and accessories on the market and strongly believe that the technology can provide easy-to-use applications and solutions," says Jan Wareby, corporate executive vice president and head of sales & marketing at Sony Ericsson.

Bluetooth wireless technology is also included in less obvious, peripheral applications. It serves as a trusted wireless connection in critical medical devices such as Nonin Medical's pulse oximetry system. Bluetooth technology is used to scan bar codes with the Baracoda Pencil and keep UPS logistics running smoothly across the globe.

The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), the trade association responsible for the development of the short-range wireless technology, attributes increased Bluetooth technology adoption to improved interoperability in second and third generation products as well as innovative applications such as hands-free in the automobile and wireless headsets that have increased consumer awareness and demand.

"Bluetooth technology has allowed Toyota to offer an integrated hands-free calling solution at a much lower price than ever before. Prior to Bluetooth technology, an integrated system would cost well over $1500 and would require dealer installation. Now we offer Bluetooth technology as part of our navigation system at no extra cost to our customers. We plan to expand the number of vehicles with Bluetooth technology in the future," said John McLaughlin, national manager, Net Car Team, Toyota.

"We've experienced great success with our Bluetooth headsets in Europe, and now they're rapidly gaining traction in the U.S. market as well," said Beth Johnson, senior director of product marketing, Plantronics. "More people are realizing the benefits of wireless freedom in the office and on the road, and they recognize Bluetooth technology as a great way to achieve that mobility. As mainstream Bluetooth adoption continues, we'll see the emergence of a truly wireless lifestyle enabled by innovative, stylish products."

"Bluetooth technology will capture new markets and stay ahead of emerging wireless technologies by continually adapting and improving the specification in areas of power, performance, security and quality of service, among others. Through cooperation and competition between our members, Bluetooth technology will deliver on the ever-increasing needs of the consumer electronics and IT markets," said Dr. Michael Foley, executive and technical director for the Bluetooth SIG.

"Despite initial challenges in the face of public opinion, Bluetooth technology is gaining momentum throughout the world of mobile devices. As education, awareness, and solutions improve, Bluetooth technology will quickly find broad acceptance from vendors and users alike," said Alex Slawsby, IDC, senior analyst, Mobile Devices.

Joyce Putscher of In-Stat/MDR reported that, "Bluetooth chipset revenue in 2004 is expected to approach $1 billion in 2005, rising to a forecasted $1.7 billion by 2008."

"CSR's Bluetooth chipset revenues reflect that optimism is well-founded, coming in at $95M for the first six months of 2004, versus $67M for the entire calendar year of 2003. In August of 2004, CSR shipped its 50 millionth Bluetooth chip," said Eric Janson, vice president, CSR North America.

Later this year, the Bluetooth SIG expects the latest version of the specification to date, Enhanced Data Rate, to be ratified by the organization's Board of Directors. Enhanced Data Rate will speed file transfers and open doors for the technology in new markets including imaging and high-fidelity audio. The SIG is currently outlining technology enhancements for the coming years, and plans to release this roadmap in Q4 2004.