Apple may be planning to add Bluetooth support to its AirPlay wireless media streaming protocol, according to a new report. According to Macotakara, Apple recently held a technology summit for members of its Made For iPod/iPhone/iPad (MFI) program in Shenzen, China, at which it shared details of a new certification chip.
The chip will offer MFI devices access to iOS devices via AirPlay over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Apple also suggested that the new Bluetooth 4.0+HS support found in the iPhone 4S should increase battery life thanks to low energy requirements and will support new applications in the health care and gaming markets.
According to the report, Apple hopes the move will help grow the AirPlay device market, which currently accounts for just two percent of the MFI program. [via AppleInsider]
.
