Leading up to the highly anticipated release of the Apple iPhone, many Bluetooth advocates (Including BlueTomorrow.com) were eager to find out whether Apple had finally embraced Bluetooth's advancements by integrating the Bluetooth Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) into their new iPhone. If you are not aware, Bluetooth A2DP is the Bluetooth profile that allows for the wireless streaming of stereo audio to other devices such as stereo headphones, car stereos, portable speakers, home stereo systems, etc. The Apple iPhone and Bluetooth A2DP appeared to be a perfect match.

To the disappointment of many, Apple failed to incorporate Bluetooth A2DP. The decision not to utilize A2DP comes as a huge surprise, especially considering that the iPhone comes equipped with other Bluetooth capabilities, such as voice calls and hands-free communication in cars.

Mike Foley, President of the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), recently voiced his opinion on his personal blog under the blog post title, “iDisappointment.” Adding stereo support to the iPhone would have been a simple extension, which is why Mr. Foley can’t understand the decision to leave out Bluetooth A2DP.

Mr. Foley gives two reasons to why he thinks Apple made this decision:

1. The mandatory SBC codec required for streaming stereo audio
2. Apple's desire to develop their own proprietary technology

Foley believes the 2nd reason is the primary motive behind why the iPhone does not support stereo streaming. If the iPhone supported Bluetooth A2DP, any Bluetooth device, regardless of manufacturer, would be compatible with the iPhone. This would not be in the best interest of the Apple Corporation. If Apple can assure that iPhone users will have to buy Apple manufactured accessories, they are in position to make substantially more money. Even most 3rd party wired headphones do not work with the iPhone due to the recessed iPhone headphone port. iPhone users are forced to either buy new compatible headphones or purchase an extra adapter to make their current headphones work.

Is Apple currently developing their own proprietary wireless technology to stream music? Why else would they choose not to incorporate Bluetooth stereo streaming into the iPhone?

Many of Apple’s established customers are already accustomed to Bluetooth technology due to a significant amount of 3rd party Bluetooth iPod accessories on the market. It would make more sense for Apple to incorporate Bluetooth stereo technology directly into their line of iPods, and then develop a line of Apple Bluetooth accessories. With the iPod brand, I don’t think it would be difficult to sell these products.

For a device that is supposed to be the greatest phone/audio player combination ever, the latest iPhone truly falls short by not utilizing stereo Bluetooth. The iPhone had amazing potential, but Apple failed to deliver. Had the iPhone offered the ability to wirelessly stream music to stereo headphones, car stereos, etc., the $600 price tag might have been more reasonable.

Posted July 11, 2007 by BlueTomorrow.com Editorial Staff