What is UWB on Android, what it is for and why you should activate it (especially if you have a car)

In a world where technology advances by leaps and bounds, UWB is positioned as a key innovation. This technology not only improves accuracy and security, but also makes it easier to access and control smart devices.

Within the world of wireless connections, you are surely familiar with terms such as WiFi, Bluetooth or mobile networks such as LTE. These protocols have been essential to keep us connected and allow data transfer without the need for cables.

However, with the advancement of technology, new terminologies have emerged that adapt to the needs of new generations. Among these, stands out UWBeither ultra wide band.

It is a wireless communication protocol, originally designed for efficient data transfer, has evolved to offer high-precision tracking functionality. Able to locate objects with an accuracy that can be less than 30 centimeters.

This system has become an indispensable tool in a variety of practical applications. Its versatility and accuracy make it ideal for real-time tracking in industries such as logistics, inventory management, and personal security, among others.

On Android devices, UWB is used to improve positioning accuracy and communication between devices. The technology works by measuring the time it takes for short radio pulses to travel between one mobile phone and another, providing very precise spatial tracking.

What is UWB for?

Ultra wideband has multiple uses, one of the most practical being unlocking cars. Thanks to its precision, manufacturers are adopting this technology so that vehicles automatically unlock when they detect a compatible device, such as your smartphone.

Similarly, it is used in devices such as Apple AirTags to track personal items, in keyless entry systems for homes, in manufacturing and logistics for asset tracking, and in sports to monitor the performance and position of players.

It should be noted that activate UWB on your Android mobile can offer you several advantages, especially if you have a compatible car. Here’s why you should consider activating it right now:

• With UWB enabled, your car can detect your presence and automatically unlock when you approach. This eliminates the need to search for keys in your bag or pocket, making access faster.
• The precision of ultra wideband ensures that only authorized devices can interact with your car or keyless entry system, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
• UWB is not only useful for cars. It can also improve the way you interact with other devices in your home, making it easier to automate tasks and control smart devices.

If you decide to take advantage of UWB, activating it on your Android device is easier than it seems. However, it is important to note that not all mobile phones are compatible with this technology.

For example, Samsung devices such as the Note 20 Ultra, S21+, S21 Ultra, S22+, S22 Ultra, S23+, S23 Ultra, Z Fold 2, Z Fold 3, Z Fold 4 come with a stand. The Pixel 6 Pro and Pixel 7 Pro are also, as are the Xiaomi Mix 4 and the iPhones from model 11 to the most recent.

First, open the app Setting on your device, navigate to the Connected devices and then select Connection preferences. At the bottom of the page, you will find the option UWB. Slide the switch to activate it.

How is UWB different from Bluetooth?

Although both Ultra Wide Band and Bluetooth are short range wireless technologies, there are significant differences between the two. For example, in terms of accuracy, UWB offers much higher positioning, making it ideal for apps that require exact tracking.

While both can transfer data, UWB was initially designed for this purpose and its tracking capabilities have made it more suitable for precise functions such as vehicle unlocking and object location.

In this sense, ultra wideband is not designed to transfer large amounts of dataunlike Bluetooth, this is where their differences are noticeable, so each one has a very different purpose.

UWB is a technology with great potential to transform the way we interact with the devices around us, especially in the automotive space. If you have a compatible car and an Android device that supports the technology, we recommend that you activate the feature and enjoy the convenience, security and speed it offers.

Remember that The list of compatible devices and cars is constantly growing, so it is likely that in the near future this feature will become even more common. At the moment, these are the car brands that offer support:

BMW, Audi, Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, Genesis, Jeep, Kia, Mini, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Ram, Porsche, Subaru, Rivian, Toyota, Volkswagen and Hyundai. The convenience of not having to search for car keys, along with the peace of mind of greater security, make UWB a must-have feature on current Android devices.

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Tags: wireless