GoKawiil
Tech News
Wireless congestion from accumulated smart devices is often blamed on Bluetooth interference with Wi-Fi networks. In reality, most modern routers and devices use frequency management techniques that keep Bluetooth and Wi-Fi signals from significantly interfering with each other, except in specific overlapping scenarios.
Google's latest Android 17 QPR2 Beta 4, released last Friday, makes it far easier to use a voice-broadcasting feature on Pixel phones that lets people speak or stream audio to nearby Bluetooth LE Audio devices, similar to a personal PA system. The capability, previously called Voicecast and buried in Developer Settings, can now be turned on instantly via a Quick Settings tile, provided Bluetooth is enabled, and supports password protection to block unwanted listeners.
Google has published troubleshooting guidance for Android Auto users experiencing connection issues, covering both wired and wireless setups. The advice includes checking cables and ports for damage, using data-capable cables under six feet, and toggling Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to force a manual reconnection.
Amazon has quietly equipped every Kindle released since 2016 with Bluetooth, even though the devices lack built-in speakers or headphone jacks. The wireless connection lets users pair headphones or speakers to listen to audiobooks or have text read aloud, rather than for downloading books, which still relies on Wi-Fi or USB.
Wireless CarPlay initially relies on Bluetooth to pair the iPhone with the car, which then hands the phone Wi-Fi network credentials so CarPlay can run over that faster connection. Once Wi-Fi takes over, the car drops the Bluetooth link, though it keeps the paired connection on file to speed up future launches or reconnect a dropped session. Setup can happen either via a one-time USB connection or fully wirelessly through the iPhone's Bluetooth and Wi-Fi settings.
Therabody has released the second-generation Theragun Sense, a $299 massage gun aimed at everyday relaxation rather than intense deep-tissue recovery. It features an LCD screen that walks users through guided routines, showing where to apply the device, for how long, and with how much pressure, with additional routines available via the Therabody app over Bluetooth.
A new buyer's guide breaks down what shoppers should evaluate when choosing a USB Bluetooth adapter for a PC, from budget picks like the ASUS USB-BT500 and TP-Link Nano 2-in-1 AC600 to advanced options such as the Avantree DG80, Creative BT-W5, and Sena UD100-G03. It explains that basic $10 adapters suit simple headset pairing, while pricier models offer better codecs, lower latency, and multi-device support.
Garmin's CIRQA fitness tracker is experiencing Bluetooth heart rate broadcasting failures following the August 20 firmware 2.50 update, according to user reports on a Gadgets and Wearables forum thread. Affected users say Bluetooth connections cycle between connected and disconnected on Garmin Edge devices, while broadcasting fails outright on apps like Zwift, TrainerRoad, Rouvy and Strava, plus Bluetooth-enabled gym equipment. ANT+ connections remain unaffected, and a Garmin representative confirmed the issue has been escalated internally with no fix timeline given yet.
Amazon is offering the AOC Portable Bluetooth Speaker at $24.99, half its usual $49.99 price, through an on-page coupon that hasn't been seen before on this item. The speaker offers Bluetooth connectivity, stereo sound, IP67 water and dust resistance, a built-in mic, and roughly 24-30 hours of battery life depending on the version.
Google's newly announced Pixel Tag Bluetooth tracker won't ship until November, leaving buyers without an option for months. Android Authority points to five trackers already available, with Motorola's Moto Tag 2 standing out at $20 (or $99 for four), offering UWB support, a replaceable CR2032 battery, IP68 water resistance, and roughly 600 days of battery life, all while working with Google's Find Hub network.
Amazon has cut the price of the Aurzen BOOM Mini Google TV projector to $249.99, a $100 reduction from its $349.99 list price. The device offers native 1080p resolution, 500 ANSI lumens, and a projection range of 40 to 200 inches, along with built-in Google TV streaming and voice control. It also includes autofocus, keystone correction, obstacle avoidance, dual 10W speakers with Dolby Audio, and multiple connectivity options like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and HDMI.
Amazon is selling Bose's compact SoundLink Micro Bluetooth speaker for $79.99, down from its usual $129 price. The speaker weighs under a pound, carries an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, and offers up to 12 hours of playback per charge.