Java APIs for Bluetooth
| Company type | Standard |
|---|---|
| Industry | Software, Wireless communication |
| Founded | September 2000 |
| Founder | Motorola, Sun Microsystems |
| Products | Java Bluetooth API (JSR-82) |
Java APIs for Bluetooth Wireless Technology (JABWT) represent a J2ME standard that allows Java MIDlet applications on embedded gadgets such as mobile phones to leverage Bluetooth for short-distance wireless communication. Established as JSR-82 within the framework of the Java Community Process, JABWT provides a uniform Bluetooth API interface for devices adhering to this specification.
Additionally, JSR-82 implementations exist for the Java 2 Platform Standard Edition (J2SE).
Background
The JSR-82 proposal, initiated by Motorola and Sun Microsystems, received approval from the J2ME Executive Committee in September 2000. This specification delivered the inaugural standardized Java API for Bluetooth protocol integration, enabling developers to build Bluetooth applications compatible across multiple devices. The first version was released in March 2002, with the most recent revision, Maintenance Draft Review 4, published in March 2010. The specification, along with its reference implementation and Technology Compatibility Kit (TCK), is maintained by Motorola Open Source.
Discovery
JABWT facilitates the detection of nearby Bluetooth-enabled devices, allowing Java programs to search for discoverable units, retrieve their available services, and identify frequently accessed devices.
Object Exchange APIs
Included within the specification is an object exchange API that uses the OBEX protocol to transfer data between devices, supporting exchanges like electronic business cards or calendar event sharing.
Device Management
The API offers capabilities to control the local device’s Bluetooth status. Applications are able to obtain host device details such as its Bluetooth address, adjust discoverability settings for other devices, and register Bluetooth services.
Security
Multiple security levels are supported by JABWT. When establishing connections via Connector.open(), applications can define the necessary security requirements.
Compatible Devices
A wide range of mobile devices produced by various manufacturers comply with the JSR-82 standard. Google maintains an updated catalog of devices that support this specification.
Implementations
Prominent open-source implementations of JSR-82 include:
- AvetanaBluetooth Implementation
- BlueCove: Java Library for Bluetooth