Within the vast world of wireless connections, most of us are more than familiar with names like Bluetooth, WiFi, NFC or LTEThey work well, they're cheap, and they've been around for many years. But for some time now, there's a technology that's been gradually gaining traction and, barring any unforeseen circumstances, it's going to significantly change how we use our phones on a daily basis: the ultra-wide band or UWB (Ultra Wideband).
This technology isn't exactly new, but it's now experiencing a resurgence thanks to the boom in... Internet of Things, high-end mobile phones and digital keysManufacturers like Apple, Samsung, Google, Volkswagen, and BMW have rushed to integrate it because UWB offers something that Bluetooth and WiFi can't match: Highly accurate location, low latency, and high security at short distance.
What exactly is UWB technology?
When we talk about UWB we are referring to a short-range radio technology that uses a huge bandwidth for communication between devices. While Bluetooth or WiFi operate in narrow channels within specific bands (2,4 GHz, 5 GHz, etc.), ultra-wideband emits very low power radio pulses spread over a very wide frequency band.
In technical terms, UWB encompasses systems that use a bandwidth of at least 500 MHz per channelIn practice, we are talking about spectrum usage that can range approximately from 3,1 to 10,6 GHzThis large bandwidth allows devices to exchange information and measure signal travel time with an accuracy that other technologies cannot achieve.
Ultra-wideband began to develop from the phased antennas from the 50sBut it wasn't until the 90s and 2000s that proposals for its use in consumer electronics began to appear. In 2002, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) authorized its use for commercial applications, although at that time the appeal of WiFi and Bluetooth It left UWB pretty much in the background.
Today the situation is different: the context of connected homes, digital keys, and devices that locate each other has made this technology fashionable again. Apple, Samsung, NXP, Bosch, Sony, Volkswagen, Google and other major players They are pushing hard to make it as commonplace as Bluetooth in our mobile phones.
How does UWB work and why is it so accurate?
The key to UWB is that, unlike classic Bluetooth, It does not estimate distance by signal strength. (which is quite imprecise), but it measures with great accuracy the time it takes for the signal to travel to and from two devicesThis approach is known as Time of Flight (ToF).
By measuring that flight time, ultra-wideband can calculate the distance between transmitter and receiver with an accuracy of about 10 centimeters under typical conditions, and can reach even smaller margins in well-calibrated systems. Furthermore, UWB is capable of determining the direction from which the signal arrives with an error of only about 3 degrees, which gives it a real ability to "detect where you're pointing."
This combination of distance and angle makes UWB a kind of “Indoor GPS” For very short distances, useful both outdoors and indoors. Compared to Bluetooth, which typically offers accuracies on the order of one meter (or more, depending on the environment), UWB achieves very precise location tracking, crucial when dealing with car keys, object trackers, or critical equipment monitoring systems in medical settings.
Another important point is that, thanks to how it emits its low-power pulses spread over such a wide band, UWB generates little interference with other radio systems and has a remarkable ease of penetrate certain materials and wallseven in challenging environments such as hospitals with lead-lined rooms.
Speed, latency, and power consumption
Although UWB is much talked about today as a positioning technology, we must not forget that It can also transmit dataIn short-range wireless applications, UWB can offer theoretical speeds ranging from 110 Mbps at about 10 meters, going through 480 Mbps at 1 meter and reaching more than 1,6 Gbps at very short distances.
Speeds of around 100% have been measured on real mobile devices 20-30 Mbpstypically higher than Bluetooth but lower than modern Wi-Fi. In return, ultra-wideband offers a very low latencyThis translates into almost instantaneous responses when the mobile detects another device or a nearby tag and has to react.
Another strong point is that UWB is designed to be very energy efficientA transmitter can operate for years with a small button cell batteryThis makes it perfect for tracking tags on keys, bags, shopping carts, healthcare assets, or warehouse pallets that need to be "awake" at all times while consuming the minimum amount of energy.
What are the differences between UWB and Bluetooth?
It's easy to confuse the two systems because they are short-range wireless technologiesBut they actually pursue different objectives. Bluetooth was born primarily as a protocol for transmit data and audio over short distancesand only later was it used for approximate location using signal strength.
UWB, on the other hand, was originally designed for transfer data using a huge bandwidthand over time it has evolved towards use in high-precision localization and spatial detectionAlthough it can move data, today it is more focused on knowing exactly where an object is and in what direction, rather than replacing WiFi when downloading large files.
Furthermore, while Bluetooth has fairly limited positioning accuracy, UWB achieves accuracies on the order of centimeters and very low latencyThis makes it an ideal candidate for digital keys, AirTag/SmartTag trackers, secure building access, or even industrial applications where every second counts.
There is also a safety aspect: the UWB signals are more difficult to intercept and spoof. than those of other, more traditional radio systems. That makes it especially interesting for mobile payments, keyless access systems, or healthcare applications where it is not acceptable for someone to be able to deceive the system simply by replicating a signal.
Main advantages of ultra-wideband
In summary, UWB technology offers an unusual combination of features: precision, speed, low consumption and safetyIn practice, these are its greatest strengths:
- Very precise location: distances on the order of 10 cm and angles with errors of only a few degrees, both indoors and outdoors.
- Low latency: very short reaction times, ideal for functions such as digital keys or ultra-fast pairing between devices.
- High security: signals that are difficult to intercept and spoof, great protection against relay attacks in smart cars and doors.
- Good penetration and minimal interference: more robust in complex environments where there are walls, metal or multiple networks working at the same time.
- Energy efficiency: perfect for tags and devices that need to run for years on a single battery.
All of this explains why many experts see UWB as a possible replacement (or at least a very serious complement) to Bluetooth in the futureespecially in scenarios where accuracy and security are more important than simply transmitting data.
UWB on mobile: Apple, Samsung, Google and others
One of the reasons why there's so much talk about ultra-wideband lately is that High-end smartphones have begun to integrate UWB chips on a massive scaleThis opens the door to a host of everyday uses where the mobile phone acts as a "spatial sensor".
Apple was one of the first to take the step with its U1 chip, first introduced in the iPhone 11. At its launch, the company explained that this chip allowed the iPhone Precisely locate other Apple devices with U1describing it almost as adding a new type of sensor to the phone. One of the first practical applications was a smarter version of AirDropWhen you point your iPhone at someone else's phone, the system prioritize that device in the shipping list to share files more quickly and directly.
Although Apple has so far focused on uses such as AirDrop and object location through Air TagIt is quite clear that in the future, the capabilities of UWB can be leveraged for Securer mobile payments, precise indoor mapping or new ways of interacting with accessories and cars.
In the Android world, Samsung has been at the forefront. The Galaxy Note20 Ultra was the first Android phone with UWBand then the brand has gradually integrated it into its flagship models: Galaxy S21+, S21 Ultra, S22+, S22 Ultra, S23+, S23 Ultra, as well as the foldable Galaxy Z Fold2, Z Fold3 and Z Fold4among other current models.
With that hardware base, Samsung offers features such as Near Share with UWBwhich allows you to share photos and files simply pointing the mobile phone at another compatible Android deviceThe system detects which device is exactly in the direction you are pointing and places it above the sharing panel, facilitating almost instantaneous sending.
Furthermore, the Korean brand sees ultra-wideband as a key component for the future of digital house and car keysThe idea is that, thanks to UWB, the Galaxy can unlock your front door or start your vehicle automatically as you approachwith a level of precision and security that greatly reduces the chances of deceiving the system.
Google is not far behind either. Several models from the Pixel familyDevices like the Pixel 6 Pro and Pixel 7 Pro have UWB support, and Android officially incorporates it. compatibility of this technology in the operating systemFurthermore, the company's interest in launching its own tracking device, known internally as 'Grogu', has been leaked. This device would compete with Apple AirTag and Samsung SmartTag by leveraging ultra-wideband technology.
Other manufacturers such as Xiaomi (Mix 4), Oppo or LG They have also shown their hand, integrating UWB into some models or prototypes, and it is only a matter of time before this capability spreads to middle ranges as costs decrease.
How to activate UWB on an Android mobile?
Many recent Android phones come with UWB support as standard, but you usually have to activate an option in the system settings to be able to take advantage of it. The process depends on the brand, although in general it is quite simple.
On "pure" Android, like that of some Pixel phones, it's usually enough to go to Settings > Connected devices > Connection preferences and, at the end of the list, look for the option called Ultra Wide Band (UWB)From there you can activate or deactivate it as needed.
On Samsung phones, however, the path changes slightly: you have to go into Settings > Connections And there you'll find the switch for ultra-wideband. Activating it makes the phone ready to use features such as Digital keys, directional Near Share, or precision location with SmartTag.
However, not all smartphones include this technology yet. If your phone doesn't show any reference to UWB in its settings, it's most likely that does not have the necessary chipToday we find it mainly in Recent iPhones, high-end Pixels, and the high-end and foldable Galaxy familyBut the list grows longer every year.
UWB as a digital car and house key
One of the most striking uses of ultra-wideband is the Replacing physical keys with a smartphoneIn the automotive sector, this is no longer science fiction: many manufacturers are deploying keyless entry and start systems based on UWB.
The big difference compared to previous solutions is that, thanks to time-of-flight measurement and the precision of ultra-wideband, the car can to know exactly how far away the digital key is and in what placeThis makes it much harder to fool the vehicle using signal relay devices that try to make it believe the key is nearby when in reality it is, for example, in a nearby house.
Companies like NXP Semiconductors and Volkswagen They have presented car concepts that use UWB for this purpose. As the CTO of NXP explained, the car itself can measure the signal travel time between the vehicle and the key and thus accurately determine if the device is actually nearby. If it detects that the key is in another building, even if someone tries to "extend" the signal, It simply won't open or start..
The list of brands that already offer or are preparing compatibility with UWB digital keys is growing. Among them are manufacturers such as BMW, Audi, Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, Genesis, Jeep, Kia, Mini, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Ram, Porsche, Subaru, Rivian, Toyota, Volkswagen or HyundaiThe idea is that we'll end up using our mobile phones as... secure and convenient key in most modern cars.
This same logic also applies to housing and restricted access buildingsManufacturers like Samsung are working on solutions for digital key for house doors where the mobile phone acts as a secure credential. As you approach the entrance, the lock detects the authorized UWB device and unlocks automatically, with the added peace of mind that spatial accuracy greatly reduces the chances of an attacker successfully replicating the signal.
Object trackers, wearables and smart home
Another field where UWB has already carved out a niche is that of the tag-type tracking devices. The Apple AirTagFor example, they use ultra-wideband technology to help you pinpoint objects like keys, backpacks, or suitcases with great accuracy. As you approach the object, the iPhone displays directional signs on screen, with arrows and real-time distance, something that wouldn't be possible with Bluetooth alone.
Samsung does something similar with the advanced versions of its Galaxy Smart Tagwhich combine Bluetooth and UWB. If you have a Galaxy phone with a UWB chip, you can use augmented reality and the precision of ultra-wideband to “see” exactly where the lost object is. inside the home or in an office, with an accuracy that is around those famous 10 centimeters.
Beyond trackers, UWB is sneaking into wearables, tablets, laptops and smart home devicesIts ability to detect relative position allows the system to know, for example, which room you are in with your mobile phone. automatically adjust lighting, music, or temperature, or to instantly pair with the speaker or TV right in front of you.
Industrial, retail and healthcare applications
Ultra-wideband isn't limited to home and consumer use. In professional environments, UWB has been demonstrating for some time that it can reduce costs and improve efficiency in a very tangible way.
In logistics and warehousing, for example, it is used for real-time asset and merchandise tracking (RTLS)With a UWB anchor network on the ceiling and labels on trolleys, pallets, or tools, it is possible to see on a map the exact location of each asset, generate alerts when something leaves the permitted area or analyze movement patterns to optimize workflow.
In the healthcare sector, UWB technology has become a key ally for managing high-value medical equipment. Imagine a hospital with more than 500 devices shared between plants (infusion pumps, portable monitors, diagnostic tools…). By implementing a real-time tracking system based on UWB with dozens of ceiling mounts and hundreds of tags on equipment, it has been possible to reduce search time by around 65% of certain devices during a pilot, in addition to significantly reducing unauthorized movement of devices between zones.
The results of this type of solution include Fewer procedures delayed due to apparent lack of equipmentThis has resulted in reduced rental costs for devices previously considered "lost" and improved maintenance planning thanks to highly accurate usage data. Even the movement heat maps generated by the system have been used for Reorganize the distribution of equipment and reduce the time that healthcare staff spend walking between wards.
Companies like Carttec are bringing ultra-broadband to sectors such as socio-health sector and retailHorustec's solutions allow for real-time monitoring movement of people, cars and assets in hospitals and large commercial areas, detecting anomalies, improving security and providing valuable data for making business decisions.
In professional sports, leagues like the NFL They already use UWB for locate the players during the matchesgenerating advanced statistics, performance analysis and tactical improvements thanks to millimeter-precise information on positions and trajectories on the field.
Consortia and alliances that drive UWB
For a technology like UWB to truly take off, more than just individual devices are needed: it requires... common standards and interoperable ecosystemsThis is where organizations like the FiRa Consortium and UWB Alliance.
The FiRa Consortium (acronym for fine ranging) focuses on defining standards based on IEEE 802.15.4/4z for short-range communications with ultra-wideband. Its founders include names such as HID Global, NXP Semiconductors, Samsung Electronics and Boschand also has the support of companies such as Sony Imaging Products or LitePointIts goal is to enable UWB devices from different manufacturers to to understand each other and offer coherent experiences to user.
For its part, the UWB Alliance It includes companies such as Kia Motors, Hyundai, Decawave, iRobot and other members of the ecosystem. These alliances work to Promote the use of ultra-wideband, resolve potential spectrum conflicts and coordinate efforts among chip manufacturers, car manufacturers, mobile phone manufacturers, and industrial solutions manufacturers.
In addition to participating in these consortia, NXP has introduced chips such as the SR100T, which integrates ultra-wideband into a single component, NFC and a secure cryptographic processorDevices of this type allow location in 360 degrees with an accuracy of about 10 centimetersand make it easier for a smartphone to become a digital key, a secure means of payment and a positioning tool, all in one.
What future awaits UWB technology?
Looking at the current landscape, UWB technology is no longer a distant promise: It is present in high-end mobile phones, digital car keys, trackers, industrial solutions, hospitals and retail storesIts adoption is growing because it provides something concrete that existing technologies did not quite solve: accurate and reliable spatial context.
It's quite reasonable to think that, over time, UWB will become as common in smartphones as Bluetooth is today. As chip costs decrease and standards become more established, we'll see this technology become more prevalent. mid-range devices and, later on, even more affordable onesextending to bracelets, watches, headphones and smart home gadgets.
In everyday life, this can translate into us using our mobile phones as Universal key for car and home, assistant to find any object, secure access card and “directional” remote control to interact with our environment. In industries and hospitals, UWB will continue to expand its role as a strategic tool for Optimize resources, reduce losses, and increase safety.
Quietly, ultra-wideband is creeping into more and more devices and services, and all signs point to it becoming one of those discreet but essential technologies which, in a few years, we will take for granted when the mobile phone unlocks the car as we approach, guides us precisely to our lost keys, or alerts a hospital that critical equipment is missing precisely where it is most needed. Share this information so more people can learn about UWB technology.