Bluetooth is often misunderstood as a short-range technology, limited to just a few meters. In reality, with optimized settings like higher transmission power and long-range PHY modes, Bluetooth can reliably communicate over hundreds of meters—even kilometers. This blog explores how advancements in Bluetooth technology make it a robust solution for long-range communication in industrial and outdoor settings.

When discussing Bluetooth, I often encounter the misconception that it only works over short distances (e.g., 5 to 10 meters). This belief usually stems from common experiences with Bluetooth headphones, which often lose connection when you walk into another room. I understand the frustration—my headphones struggle with range, too.

But here’s the reality: Bluetooth technology can communicate far beyond these limited distances, especially when optimized for range. Let me show you just how far Bluetooth can go.

Boosting Transmission Power for Extended Range

One way to boost the range of Bluetooth communication is by adjusting the transmission power. Most Bluetooth devices operate at a default power of 1 mW (0 dBm), which is highly energy-efficient and suitable for short-range connections like headphones.

However, many Bluetooth devices are capable of much higher transmission powers, some up to 100 mW (20 dBm). These higher settings can dramatically extend the communication range—though with increased power consumption.

At DEWINE Labs, we’ve demonstrated this capability in challenging environments. For instance:

• Industrial Warehouses: We reliably exchange time-critical Bluetooth messages over distances exceeding 100 meters, even in spaces cluttered with metal and other obstacles.
• Outdoor Settings: Our optimized Bluetooth solutions achieve reliable communication over more than 1000 meters.

Using Long-Range PHY modes

You can go even further by using the long-range Bluetooth PHY modes (called the Coded PHYs). These PHY modes trade higher data rates for exceptional range, enabling communication over distances of 5 kilometers or more.

Want to see it in action? Check out the following resources to real-world demonstrations of Bluetooth achieving incredible distances.

Bluetooth Beyond Boundaries: From Earth to Space

Here’s a fun fact to blow your mind: with cutting-edge engineering, Bluetooth signals can even be received in space. Companies like Hubble Network use satellites to detect Bluetooth beacons from Earth’s surface.

While this isn’t something most people will need, it shows Bluetooth’s potential. Clearly, Bluetooth’s range is anything but limited.

The Takeaway

The idea that Bluetooth is confined to short distances is simply outdated. When properly optimized, Bluetooth devices can reliably exchange time-critical messages over hundreds of meters—even kilometers—without issue. Whether it’s an industrial warehouse or an outdoor environment, Bluetooth’s range is more than capable of meeting your needs.

Next time you think of Bluetooth as “short-range,” remember: it’s all about how you use it.