LG Innotek recently announced a new Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) module for the Internet of Things. By the way, this is the smallest Bluetooth module on the planet. The size of the new module is 6mm x 4mm, and the volume is only 75% of the previous model. Thus, this is about the size of a grain of rice.
Despite the reduction in size, LG Innotek pointed out that the performance of the new chip is actually 30% higher than that of existing products. The performance improvement is the result of the company’s differentiated RF signal design technology. Due to this technology, LG can fit more than 20 components into this miniaturized space, including communication chips, resistors, and inductors.
More importantly, LG Innotek claims that the reduction in size actually eliminates signal interference. Even if there is an obstacle between the smartphone and the IoT device, the improvement in communication performance can be maintained. This means that for the end user, there is less signal attenuation.
LG Innotek’s integrated technology is also helpful in this regard. Generally, OEM manufacturers place the antenna outside the module. And LG designs the antenna to cover the module itself. Therefore, the coverage area and communication performance are maximized.
This new module is not designed for smartphones, but will strengthen LG’s position in the IoT market. LG Innotek said that it plans to accelerate its ‘entry into the global IoT communication module market’. And LG is promoting this new chip in Europe, the United States, Japan, and China.