CAMBRIDGE, UK: CSR has enhanced its leading BlueCore4-ROM Plug-n-Go automotive Bluetooth silicon with Bluetooth v.2.1 functionality. BlueCore4-ROM Plug-n-Go is the world's first Bluetooth chip that adheres to both the AEC-Q100 automotive stress test qualification and Bluetooth v.2.1, enabling OEMs to create feature-rich in-car multimedia systems quickly and easily.

BlueCore4-ROM is the world's most successful Bluetooth chip, present in more products than any other Bluetooth silicon. CSR has subjected the design to full automotive standard stress testing and updated BlueCore4-ROM to the latest Bluetooth standard.

Bluetooth v.2.1 includes enhanced power optimisation, improved security and simple pairing. Simple pairing allows users to pair devices quickly and simply without the need for pin codes. Discoverable devices can be set to pair with in-range devices automatically; ideal for pairing phones or MP3 players with automotive Bluetooth hands-free and music kits.

In addition, Bluetooth v.2.1 supports sniff sub-rating which reduces power consumption for battery operated devices such as remote controls. It also allows pairing by other technologies; for example, the pairing can be initiated simply by passing Near Field Communications (NFC)-enabled devices close to each other.

"We're very pleased to be able to bring Bluetooth v.2.1 to the automotive arena" said Rafik Jallad, Vice President of the Automotive Business Unit at CSR. "We're following our tradition to be the first to provide automotive customers with the latest Bluetooth features. The launch of RoadTunes earlier this year combined with the launch of BlueCore4-ROM Plug-n-Go is another proof of CSR's commitment to serve the automotive market with the latest and most advanced technologies."

CSR's BlueCore4-ROM Plug-n-Go Bluetooth v.2.1 is in production.