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Increase Your Bandwidth on Bluetooth How motorized window coverings utilize this tech, plus its benefits and challenges BY O’D MCKEWAN
After spending a few days at the International Window Coverings Expo in April, I got to walk the show floor and take a look at all the new innovations that are being introduced into the market. One such innovation is the integration of Bluetooth technology with motorized window coverings. If unfamiliar, Bluetooth is a wireless communication protocol that has transformed the way we interact with our environment and its application in motorized window coverings has revolutionized comfort, convenience and energy efficiency. We all know that motorized window coverings provide an elegant and effortless solution for adjusting blinds, shades, and curtains and enhancing privacy, light control and energy management. Most manufacturers offer motorized window coverings that are controlled through proprietary remote controls or elaborate third-party communications that require an additional Wi-Fi hub. However, the integration of Bluetooth technology has taken the control of motorized shades to a new level by offering the elimination of remotes and hubs.
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JULY + AUGUST 2023 | wf-vision.com
Bluetooth technology can now serve as a direct bridge between motorized window coverings and various control devices, such as smartphones, tablets or voice assistants. Just like how your phone can connect to a wireless headset or speaker via Bluetooth connectivity, now users can remotely control their window coverings via Bluetooth. This is done by downloading the manufacturer’s app and following their on-screen directions to link the motors to the phone/tablet. Once this is done, you can program and control the shades directly from the mobile device anywhere within Bluetooth range. Bluetooth range is one of the major considerations of using its technology. Although Bluetooth is easy to connect and to use, it does have its downsides. Most Bluetooth signals are not very strong and have a limited range. This means that the distance from your mobile device to the motorized shade will need to be considered when trying to operate the shades. If it is too far away, it will not communicate. That is why most