Bluetooth will get up to four times faster in 2027 with High Data Throughput

[Pilot85]

Bluetooth is getting a big speed upgrade. Engadget reports that the Bluetooth SIG has formally adopted High Data Throughput, known as HDT, as an optional part of Bluetooth Core 7.0

HDT raises the maximum bit rate on Bluetooth Low Energy from 2Mbps to up to 7.5Mbps, which is nearly four times faster. The first devices supporting it are expected in early 2027, with a wider rollout after that

The expected benefits include higher quality audio, spatial and multi channel sound, faster firmware updates and quicker syncing for fitness devices. It should also help newer AI and spatial computing gadgets that need to move more data

Because HDT is optional, support will vary between devices. Both ends of a connection will need it to get the full benefit

Faster Bluetooth could finally close the gap between wireless and wired audio for many listeners. Quicker firmware updates for earbuds and watches will be welcome too, since those can take ages now. As always with optional features, it will be worth checking the specification before buying

What would you most like faster Bluetooth for? And do you think wireless audio will ever fully match wired?

Bluetooth is going to get a lot faster in 2027 - Engadgetwww.engadget.com

[GateWalker31]

Optional features worry me. Manufacturers skip them to save money. We could end up with confusing labels again

[Murky Courier]

Wired audio will always have an edge for purists. For most people, though, wireless is already good enough

This makes it even better. Convenience wins for the majority. Cables are becoming a niche choice