If you look at the descriptions of most new devices, like laptops, cell phones and tablet PCs, you'll frequently see "Bluetooth" mentioned. Bluetooth is a major communication tool and a good connection option for many devices, regardless of the type of device or what software is running on the device. Fortunately, Bluetooth versions are fully compatible with each other.
How Bluetooth Works
Bluetooth is a common and versatile use of radio waves for communication and is managed by Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG). Using Bluetooth is a little like using a Wi-Fi network: Both devices must have proper hardware and software to be able to communicate with each other and both must establish a connection for transferring data wirelessly. Most Bluetooth devices have a range of 30 to 35 feet, though a few have significantly higher range.
Bluetooth 2.0 Backward Compatibility
There are four versions of Bluetooth, though as of early 2011, version 2 is the most commonly used option. Earlier versions include Bluetooth 1.0 and Bluetooth 1.2, which are significantly slower than version 2.0 and do not have as many security features. However, Bluetooth 2.0 is fully compatible with earlier versions, so if you have a device with 1.0 or 1.2 on it, you can connect it with a device that has Bluetooth 2.0.
Bluetooth 2.0 Forward Compatibility
Although version 4.1 is available, not as many devices use that version or even 3.0 when compared to 2.0. However, Bluetooth SIG has kept backwards-compatibility a priority, so if you have a device with a version higher than 2.0, it can still communicate with Bluetooth 2.0. Again, when connecting with lower-version devices, the data rate and security is capped by the lowest version.
Uses of Bluetooth 2.0
Some of the most common applications of Bluetooth are in mobile devices, like cell phones and MP3 players. Instead of physically plugging these devices into a computer, you're able to sync them wirelessly with Bluetooth and transfer data like calendar items, music files and video clips. Some printers even have Bluetooth capabilities, so you can print using a computer or a mobile device that's not physically connected to the printer.
