Bluetooth Kits
Bluetooth kits again work in much the same way as cradle and universal kits, the main difference being that rather than using a cradle to make the connection with your mobile phone it uses Bluetooth. Bluetooth is a wireless technology that allows Bluetooth enabled products to be connected wirelessly within a 10 meter range, without needing to be “in sight” so your phone can be kept in a bag, pocket or glove box.
Bluetooth kits are available in many different variations ranging from a simple button which can be positioned on the dashboard using an adhesive sticky pad to a colour screen which displays your mobile phones information, such as phone book, last dialled numbers and signal strength.
Some Bluetooth kits will even allow music to be streamed to them via A2DP. When linked to a compatible stereo this allows the music on your mobile phone to be played through the vehicles in built speakers. As Bluetooth kits do not use a cradle it is not possible to connect these kits to an antenna. Continuous connection to a Bluetooth hands free kit will also deplete your mobile phones battery so you may wish to ensure that you always have a way to keep your battery toped up.
Advantages of Bluetooth Kits
Bluetooth kits are the most flexible handsfree kits available. The wireless connection means that any Bluetooth handsfree kit will work with any Bluetooth enabled mobile phone. Other advantages are
- Multiple mobile phones can be used with the same Bluetooth kit
- Automatic connection of mobile phone & Bluetooth kit
- No wires. The mobile phone can be kept in your bag, briefcase or pocket and still be connected to the Bluetooth kit
- Optional screens available to display incoming call, phone book etc
- Music streaming from mobile phone to Bluetooth kit for products with A2DP Bluetooth profile
- Disadvantages of Bluetooth Kits
- Although providing an extremely flexible handsfree solution Bluetooth car kits do have some disadvantages
- No Charging function. As the mobile phone is not physically connected to the Bluetooth kit there is no possibility for the phone to be charged. This problem is exaggerated as a constant Bluetooth connection from your mobile phone will drain the phones battery.
- No connection to an external antenna. This severely reduces the quality of the connection to the mobile phone network
- Compatibility issues. Although Bluetooth is a universal format different manufacturers use different software types and profiles. This means that the functions of any Bluetooth kit can be severely reduced & your mobile phone may require software updates
- No cradle. UK mobile phone legislation requires that if a mobile has to be operated in any way it should be held in a fixed cradle.
Other Portable hands free kits -
Please feel free to view our related guides pages:
