Date: 06/01/2011

On the question of can Wi-Fi and Bluetooth coexist

While Bluetooth increasing data speed capabilities in new version 3.0 and Wi Fi is offering the Wi-Fi direct as an alternative to Bluetooth, the question of these both wireless interface technologies' co-existance will arise. The market researcher In-Stat says the availability of High-Speed Bluetooth via combo chips with classic BT improves its chances of success. However, a new potential alternative Wi-Fi Direct allows peer-to-peer connections between Wi-Fi devices. If Wi-Fi Direct succeeds it could eliminate the need for Bluetooth 3.0 altogether.

"Standard Wi-Fi is increasingly common in many Bluetooth target markets," says Brian O'Rourke, Principal Analyst. "Until recently, lack of peer-to-peer connectivity was Wi-Fi's most significant weakness in those markets. Wi-Fi Direct addresses that weakness and, because there is significant application overlap in PCs and mobile phones, it is a very real threat to the long term viability of Bluetooth 3.0."

Recent research by In-Stat found the following:
Classic Bluetooth technology will remain dominant in phones indefinitely.
Sony PS3 and Nintendo Wii controllers have Bluetooth.
Bluetooth 3.0, a new high-speed standard that combines Bluetooth with Wi-Fi, entered into the market in mobile phones in 2010.
The Bluetooth USB adapter market will remain robust due to Bluetooth's lack of ubiquity in the mobile PC space and low penetration of desktop PCs
PMPs, game consoles, and game controllers are the main drivers of Bluetooth growth in CE devices.
Growth in industrial and medical markets will be driven by Bluetooth Low Energy.