Bluetooth

Bluetooth lets phones, headphones, and speakers talk to each other without wires. It uses radio waves to send sounds and data. You can use it to play music or share photos. Bluetooth only works when devices are close together.

How It Got Its Name

Bluetooth was named after an old king from Denmark named Harald Bluetooth. He lived over 1,000 years ago. The king was known for bringing people together, just like Bluetooth brings devices together. The Bluetooth symbol is made from the king's initials in old runes.

A tiny Bluetooth chip that helps gadgets talk wirelessly.
A tiny Bluetooth chip that helps gadgets talk wirelessly. (Nixdorf / Wikimedia Commons)

How We Use It

Bluetooth is in many things we use every day. People use it for wireless headphones, speakers, and keyboards. Cars use Bluetooth so drivers can answer calls without holding a phone. Smart watches use Bluetooth to share steps and messages with phones.

Fun Facts

  • Bluetooth was invented in Sweden in 1994.
  • The name comes from a king who had a dark tooth.
  • Bluetooth only works within about 30 feet.

Did You Know?

The Bluetooth logo combines the runes for H and B, the first letters of King Harald Bluetooth's name.