You wouldn't think to celebrate updated versions of wireless technology, but a new version of Bluetooth offers some appealing changes. Nearly 1 year after the release of Bluetooth version 4.1, Bluetooth Technology has released version 4.2, increasing connectivity and upgrading privacy.

The latest version of the technology makes it easier and safer to connect to your Bluetooth integrated devices. The inclusion of IPv6 (Internet Protocol Version 6) will allow Bluetooth devices to connect to each other directly through the internet, via a private data transmission, rather than requiring the signal to pass through a central hub device. This support will greatly benefit Smart Home owners. Rather than the complexity of needing multiple hubs for each device, the upgrade minimizes the amount of hardware needed if two products don't communicate. This will save on cost and help you fight the need of buying a separate hub for your smart light bulb, garage door sensor, and light switches.

Bluetooth 4.2 also features some privacy upgrades. Since many retailers now use beacons to connect with their customers Bluetooth devices, the new version will implement features to make it more difficult for the beacons to track users who have not opted in to the beacon alerts. Bluetooth LE (Low Energy) will also see an increase in data transfer rate, up to 2.5x faster than before. This will mean that the devices do not have to work as hard, thus increasing the length of the battery life (Mashable).

Although Bluetooth 4.1 devices are currently able to upgrade to the new version, the manufacturers will need to make the upgrade available through a firmware update. A representative for the Bluetooth SIG told Ars Technica, “Privacy features may be available via firmware update, but it does ultimately depend on the manufacturer implementation”. Lastly, owners of older Bluetooth devices who want to take advantage of version 4.2’s new features will likely need a hardware upgrade.