A Bluetooth® headset allows a wireless connection between a headset and a Bluetooth®-enabled cell phone. For those who are not completely up with the advancements of technology, Bluetooth® is a rather low-cost means for different devices to communicate with each other via a secure, short-range radio frequency. With this technology, up to seven connections can be made at one time, including cell phones, headsets, cameras, global positioning system (GPS) devices, printers, keyboards, handheld computers, and even Bluetooth®-capable cars.

In the case of cars, a Bluetooth® headset allows the driver to use a cell phone through the car’s audio system and an onboard navigation screen. For two devices to work together, a simple connection is established. Bluetooth® technology has a range of 30 feet (10 m). Compared to wireless fidelity, or Wi-Fi, Bluetooth® uses the same frequency range but does not reach near the distances. Wi-Fi also requires costlier hardware.

A Bluetooth® headset is small and lightweight, with some models weighing less than an ounce (28 g). It can provide up to five hours of talk time and as many as 100 hours of standby time. The Bluetooth® headset allows you to use your mobile without wires even if your phone is in a bag, pocket, piece of luggage, or nearby room.

As newer versions of Bluetooth® are released, it is important to verify that your Bluetooth® headset and other devices are compatible. The newer versions resolved issues from previous versions, such as identity snooping and tracking, by adding an anonymity mode. Adaptive frequency hopping is a benefit when it comes to crowded frequencies.

When choosing a Bluetooth® headset, keep several factors in mind. Ergonomics are important; determine whether it is easy to put on and remove and whether it is comfortable. Also, be sure the volume and other controls are easy to use. Find out whether the battery in the Bluetooth® headset is replaceable and how many devices it can connect with. Ask about the typical range. You will also want a clear, well-written, helpful manual for your Bluetooth® headset.

Along with the term Bluetooth®, which derives from the name of a 10th century Danish king who unified Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, some other catchy buzzwords developed. Bluebugging defines eavesdropping and bluesnarfing occurs when a hacker accesses a phone’s information, for example contacts stored in the phone. Bluejacking, a play on the word hijacking, involves a teasing or otherwise enticing message sent as a text message. For added security, Bluetooth® devices can be secured with a code or placed in hidden mode when not in use.