New invention to give consumers full control of their smart devices

The new powerful and flexible protocol allows users unprecedented control of smart devices such as smart fridges, home appliances, lights, wireless speakers and smart industrial equipments. The new invention – which is being dubbed the “Bluetooth for the Internet of Things” – can be used whether devices are from different manufacturers, use different operating systems, use different wireless technologies or they are with or without Internet availability.

The inventors have been awarded with an initial funding of £300,000 by Innovate UK to further develop and extend the protocol.

The new breakthrough invention was made at the University of Surrey’s 5G Innovation Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that is dedicated to developing the next generation of mobile and wireless communications technologies.

Anmar Rassam, Research Fellow at the 5GIC Centre and inventor of the new protocol, said: “Wireless smart devices are becoming an everyday part of our lives and they are growing in importance. However, it is frustrating that for nearly every device we buy we all have to download a new app to use it to its full potential.  

“Our new protocol will allow you to control your smart appliances, your connected lights, your wireless speakers – any smart device you may have – seamlessly and effortlessly using your phone, tablet, wearable or computer”

“This is about giving you control and flexibility to use and interact with smart devices inside the home or outside in the smart and connected environments, and ultimately improving users experience and enhancing customers engagement for a better ecosystem.”