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Is There a Bluetooth Killer App?

  • Nov 13, 2000
BluetoothTM wireless communication expert Brent A. Miller offers his opinion about a "killer application" for this technology. Rather than identifying a single-usage scenario as the killer app, Miller suggests that simple cable-replacement applications may foster the technology's initial success.

BluetoothTM wireless communication expert Brent A. Miller offers his opinion about a "killer application" for this technology. Rather than identifying a single-usage scenario as the killer app, Miller suggests that simple cable-replacement applications may foster the technology's initial success.

What Is a "Killer App"?

The term "killer application" (or "killer app") usually refers to a usage scenario associated with a technology that is so compelling that users will clamor for it, resulting in significant demand for the technology and application, and thus ensuring the success of that technology. Although debatable, a historical example is the availability of spreadsheet and game applications for the personal computer. These were some of the most widely used applications in the early days of the PC and helped to foster its success. Some might argue that central file storage, file sharing, and electronic mail served as killer apps for networked computing.

Many people interested in BluetoothTM wireless communication are thinking about what the killer app (or apps) might be for this technology. Several different types of applications are reviewed here, followed by my opinion on what may constitute the "Bluetooth killer app."

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