Bluetooth SIG approves 7.5 Mbps speed limit for Core 7.0

Consumers waiting for faster wireless audio and quicker data transfers will see the new standard in products arriving in 2027. The Bluetooth Special Interest Group approved High Data Throughput, or HDT, as an optional feature of Bluetooth Core 7.0 on Wednesday. This update increases the maximum supported bit rate for Bluetooth LE from 2 Mbps to 7.5 Mbps.

The speed increase allows devices to move data more quickly, which reduces the time the radio remains active. This shorter activity window helps preserve battery life while maintaining reliability. The Bluetooth SIG has previewed this upgrade over the past year and states it will support higher resolution audio streaming.

Wireless audio remains the primary driver for the new capability. The higher bit rate supports spatial audio and multi channel surround sound without relying on proprietary formats. Devices can stream high resolution content directly through the standard, removing the need for specialized codecs from manufacturers.

Other categories benefit from the faster throughput. Smartwatches can sync larger amounts of health and fitness data to phones in less time. Spatial computing and extended reality devices may deliver better experiences without requiring a Wi-Fi connection. Personal AI devices can also hand off data to smartphones more efficiently, allowing manufacturers to build smaller and lighter hardware.

Routine maintenance tasks will also improve with the new speed. Firmware updates for smartwatches and smart home accessories will complete faster. This reduces the time users spend waiting for updates, making the process less disruptive to daily use.

Neville Meijers, CEO of the Bluetooth SIG, said the update expands the role of the technology across consumer, commercial, and industrial markets. He described the change as a foundation for the next generation of wireless innovation. The group noted that Bluetooth has evolved to meet the demands of a connected world.

First devices supporting Bluetooth HDT are expected to reach the market in 2027. The feature is optional for manufacturers, meaning not all Bluetooth 7.0 products will include the higher speed capability.