what's new in Bluetooth connectivity ?

What's New in Bluetooth Connectivity

Updated Bluetooth Authorization Prompt

In iOS 18, the Bluetooth authorization prompt has been updated to enhance transparency about the types of data shared with Bluetooth access and the potential privacy risks. The new prompt visualizes the data that will be made available to your app, including the current location of the device and a sample of associated devices. This helps users make more informed choices about granting Bluetooth access (What’s new in privacy).

Accessory Setup Kit

The new Accessory Setup Kit simplifies the process of managing accessories with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. With just one tap, users can securely pair an accessory with your app, granting both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi access if the accessory supports both. This new setup flow removes the friction of multiple permission requests and makes it easier for users to understand what they are allowing (Meet AccessorySetupKit).

Simplified Accessory Management

The Accessory Setup Kit also introduces a new accessory picker that displays high-fidelity artwork and friendly names for accessories, making it easier for users to identify and manage their paired devices. The accessory page in iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 settings allows users to modify accessory names, toggle access for paired apps, or remove the accessory entirely (Meet AccessorySetupKit).

Core Bluetooth Integration

For developers, the Accessory Setup Kit integrates with Core Bluetooth, allowing apps to discover, authorize, and communicate with accessories seamlessly. The setup kit handles discovery and authorization, while communication is managed through Core Bluetooth and Network Extension APIs (Meet AccessorySetupKit).

Relevant Sessions

These updates aim to enhance user privacy and simplify the process of managing Bluetooth and Wi-Fi accessories, making it easier for both developers and users to handle Bluetooth connectivity.