The Bluetooth feature in your phone is something that everyone is familiar with. In your impression, is Bluetooth only for transferring files or connecting to Bluetooth headphones? Do you know about other functionalities of Bluetooth? What precautions should we take when using Bluetooth? Could it potentially increase some risks for us? Let me tell you below.
Bluetooth is an essential feature in almost every phone; it is a short-range wireless technology. Initially, we all used Bluetooth for file transfers. However, with the popularity of mobile networks and Wi-Fi, the transfer functionality has been replaced by apps like WeChat and QQ. This functionality has gradually been overlooked by many people. Yet, in special situations where there is no network, we can still use Bluetooth. For example, we can transfer files between phones or tablets, or between a phone and a computer using Bluetooth, transferring images, audio, or documents without being limited by network access.
The second and currently the most popular function of Bluetooth is connecting to wireless Bluetooth headphones. Nowadays, wireless headphones are increasingly popular; many people listen to music or answer calls via wireless headphones while exercising, driving, or even gaming. Compared to wired headphones, wireless Bluetooth headphones are much more convenient and unrestricted as long as they are connected to Bluetooth. The steps to connect Bluetooth headphones are very simple: just turn on Bluetooth on your phone and on the wireless headphones, then search for the headphones’ Bluetooth and pair them.
The third common function is connecting to smart devices. For instance, smart wearables or smart speakers can be connected via Bluetooth, allowing you to bring these devices anywhere without restrictions. For example, after connecting a Bluetooth speaker, you can play songs from your phone, which is especially convenient. Smart bands and other products can also synchronize and record data via Bluetooth, which is very handy. Many photography enthusiasts might have a selfie stick, which nowadays often comes with a small remote control. By connecting the remote control via Bluetooth, you can control your phone while taking photos, which is very powerful.
The above three functionalities are quite common and familiar in our daily lives. Now, let’s discuss some Bluetooth functions that many people may not have used or even heard of. For instance, connecting to a Bluetooth anti-lost device. You might not know about this small but very useful device. It can save you a lot of trouble; you can attach it to an elderly person, a child, a pet, or even your bag or suitcase. If it goes beyond the set range, it will automatically alert you, and you can even record alarm messages like “Help me” or “Catching a thief”. If any friends are interested, you can give this function a try.
The fifth function is sharing your mobile data with another phone. Many people have heard of enabling a mobile hotspot, but in addition to that, you can also share your network via Bluetooth. The operation is not complicated; just turn on Bluetooth on both phones and enable Bluetooth network sharing. Once connected successfully, you can start sharing your network.
The sixth function is making phone calls from your computer. Bluetooth allows you to make phone calls using your computer, tablet, or laptop. If you find it inconvenient to hold your phone while working, you can use your computer or tablet to make calls, chatting while working. You just need to turn on Bluetooth on your computer, tablet, and phone, and connect them to use the computer’s microphone and speakers for dialing or answering calls.
The seventh function is unlocking and locating shared bicycles. Many cities now have shared bicycles, and many people choose to ride shared bicycles when going out, especially with the advent of shared e-bikes that are fast and convenient. Many people are unaware that when using shared bicycles, Bluetooth can also be used to unlock them in addition to scanning a QR code. Have you often encountered situations where you have reached the parking point but cannot return the bike? In such cases, just enable Bluetooth positioning on your phone, and everything will return to normal.
The eighth function is connecting a mouse or keyboard. To facilitate work, many products are now wirelessly connected, including wireless mice and keyboards. It is well known that wireless mice and keyboards are very convenient to use. As long as you connect via Bluetooth, they can be used. With wireless mice and keyboards, you don’t have to worry about being limited when using them, making them very convenient for both work and gaming.
The last function is connecting to car Bluetooth. Many friends like to listen to music while driving, so they use their phones to connect to car Bluetooth. Once connected, you can play music or answer calls. After connecting to car Bluetooth, you can listen to music, answer calls, and even hear voice navigation, which ensures driving safety.
Although Bluetooth has so many practical functions, it also has some downsides.
The first downside is that frequently turning on Bluetooth on your smartphone will increase battery drain. For example, if your phone normally lasts three days on standby, frequently enabling Bluetooth may reduce that to two days.
The second downside is that it could become a key for hackers to steal personal data stored in your phone’s memory. This means that professional hackers can potentially harm any information saved on your device via Bluetooth, such as photos, emails, or document security. If you encounter a malicious attacker, they could even control your phone and send unnecessary data to them. This could lead to viruses spreading through Bluetooth, infecting your phone.
Therefore, I remind everyone to enhance their awareness of risks and avoid connecting to unknown Bluetooth devices, especially in public places. If Bluetooth is not in use, it is best to turn it off. Keeping Bluetooth on all the time may make you a target for scammers. Alright, you can save this for future reference; you might find it useful later.