Bluetooth V3 and V4: When Will We See Devices?

It's been a while since I last wrote a post on Bluetooth because the latest and greatest version that has been in use now for a number of years is still 2.1. Last year, however, the Bluetooth SIG finalized version 3 of the standard which includes the use of a Wi-Fi radio as a high speed option to transfer data. And just a couple of weeks ago, the Bluetooth SIG finalized version 4 of the standard for ultra low energy data transmission.

So are you aware of any Bluetooth v3 devices that will appear on the market anytime soon? I can imagine a couple of applications such as transmitting pictures quickly from the mobile phone to a Bluetooth / Wi-Fi enabled photo printer or to a PC but I haven't seen any announcements yet!?

And what about Bluetooth v4? What's the likelihood of devices using the low energy option in the next couple of years and which applications will be first?

I'll keep looking!

P.S.: For those with an appetite for the details, you can download all versions of the BT core specifications here.