The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) has finalised standards that it hopes will encourage greater use of sensors measuring speed and cadence for running and cycling. Based on Bluetooth v4.0 technology, which was rebranded by the group to Bluetooth Smart in 2011, the recently approved specifications offer improved analysis for runners and cyclists.

The new specifications are called the Running and Cycling S&C profiles. In addition to enabling greater real-time data monitoring, the Bluetooth SIG is pushing that the specifications represent a move away from proprietary standards for sports hardware vendors. Bluetooth already features in devices such as Nike + Fuelband, in addition to the iPhone.