New technology could revolutionize wireless communication

By Isobel Williams via SWNS

A new alternative to Bluetooth could see us exchanging phone numbers by shaking hands.

And it would allow people to unlock doors simply by touch - for just a few pence per device, say scientists.

Researchers have developed a more energy-efficient alternative to transfer data that could replace Bluetooth on our devices.

The University of Sussex team achieved the breakthrough by developing the use of electric waves, rather than electromagnetic waves, for a low-power way to transmit data at close range.

Bluetooth, WIFI, and 5G currently rely on wireless technology which was developed over 125 years ago with the focus of transmitting data over long distances.

As we tend to be near our devices, electric field modulation offers a proven, more efficient method of connecting devices whilst maintaining a longer-lasting battery life.

The development could advance how we use tech in our day-to-day lives and evolve a wide range of futuristic applications too.

If this technology was used to create a bracelet, data could be transferred from a simple handshake or high five.

Professor Daniel Roggen said: “We no longer need to rely on electromagnetic modulation, which is inherently battery-hungry. We can improve the battery life of wearable technology and home assistants, for example, by using electric field modulation instead of Bluetooth.

“This solution will not only make our lives much more efficient, but it also opens novel opportunities to interact with devices in smart homes.

“The technology is also low cost, meaning it could be rolled out to society quickly and easily."

Roggen added: “If this were mass-produced, the solution can be miniaturized to a single chip and cost just a few pence per device, meaning that it could be used in all devices in the not-too-distant future.”