Wi-Fi Direct allows for Bluetooth-like connectivity
Wi-Fi Alliance is expected to begin issuing Wi-Fi Direct certificates in six to nine months, i.e. mid 2010. Actually, only companies that are members of the alliance will be permitted to develop certified devices. Gadgets like cell phones, computers, accessories etc. that support the technology will be able to connect to existing ones utilizing the Wi-Fi connectivity and ultimately, users will be allowed to transfer data even without connecting to a nearby Wi-Fi hotspot. Moreover, Wi-Fi Direct is designed to permit simultaneous connection of several devices.
The technology looks more promising than Bluetooth 3.0 and may spell the end of the latter as we know it, since it sports two major advantages over its aging rival - faster speed and broader range. On the other hand, Wi-Fi Direct transfers involve increased energy consumption, but let´s wait and see how each individual manufacturer has handled the issue in practise when the first devices supporting Wi-Fi Direct start rolling out.
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