Kathmandu — The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) has officially announced Bluetooth 6.1, a next-generation wireless protocol that promises stronger privacy protections and better power efficiency.

While devices with Bluetooth 6.1 support are expected to hit the market by 2026, the update introduces notable improvements over its predecessor, Bluetooth 6.0.

One of the key highlights of Bluetooth 6.1 is enhanced user privacy. Previously, Bluetooth 6 used something called a Resolvable Private Address (RPA) that changed a device’s MAC address every 15 minutes. While helpful, that static timing made it easier for malicious actors to anticipate and track device patterns.

Bluetooth 6.1 changes that. It introduces randomized RPA intervals, updating the MAC address at unpredictable times between 8 to 15 minutes. This makes it significantly harder for bad actors to track Bluetooth devices or user behavior.

“Privacy has been a top priority,” says the Bluetooth SIG. “With randomized address updates, users can feel more secure in everyday Bluetooth usage.”

Another big upgrade is improved battery performance. Bluetooth 6.1 allows the device’s wireless chip controller, rather than the main processor, to handle RPA updates. That means less power usage — a big plus for small gadgets like wireless earbuds, smartwatches, fitness trackers, and portable speakers.

The update is part of Bluetooth SIG’s new bi-annual release schedule, meaning users can expect more frequent improvements going forward. The next version of Bluetooth is already planned for late 2025.

Until then, Bluetooth 6.1 lays the groundwork for a more private, power-efficient future in wireless tech — though you’ll need to wait a little longer to see it in everyday devices.