After having boosted performance by using Wi-Fi capabilities of computers, the Bluetooth SIG changed its mind and announced a new protocol, known as version 4.0, a low energy BT offering the following features:
Ultra-low peak, average and idle mode power consumption
Ability to run for years on standard coin-cell batteries
Low cost
Multi-vendor interoperability
Enhanced range
The main goal is to reduce power consumption, and potentially to extend usage of BT to other devices than computers. The Bluetooth SIG is probably offering tools to compete with the forthcoming other wireless solutions (Wi-Fi, future 802.11, wireless USB, etC.).
