Apple iPhone Bluetooth Headset

Which Apple iPhone Bluetooth Headset For Me?

Before we get started, let's have a brief discussion about what Bluetooth technology is found within the Apple iPhone. According to the official Apple Web site, the iPhone comes equipped with Bluetooth 2.0+EDR. The EDR stands for "Enhanced Data Rate", meaning that it can transfer data faster than standard Bluetooth 2.0, which in turn is faster than Bluetooth v1.1.

At this time, it's not completely clear which Bluetooth profiles are going to be activated (or locked) by Apple and AT&T, so you may or may not be able to use the Bluetooth capabilities to transfer large files between your computer and phone. You may or may not be able to use the iPhone as a mobile modem for your laptop. Issues like these may determine whether the Apple iPhone will be a success.

Although it is not described on the official Apple Web site, Apple CEO Steve Jobs did mention in a keynote speech than the Apple iPhone will come with the highly popular A2DP Bluetooth profile. Sound Greek to you? No worries. Here's why.

A2DP, in a nutshell, is a Bluetooth profile that allows you to use stereo Bluetooth headsets. Because the iPhone is supposed to effectively replace both your cell phone and your iPod, wouldn't it be great if you could use a set of wireless headphones to listen to music on the road? That's exactly what A2DP allows you to do!

Bluetooth Stereo Headsets for the Apple iPhone

If your primary interest is in listening to music from your iPhone, then you may be more interested in getting a Bluetooth stereo headset (A2DP) as described above. Bear in mind that these headsets are typically quite expensive (more than $100), but that's the price you pay to cast those pesky wires aside.

Mono Headsets for Voice Calls

If your primary interest is in keeping your hands free while on the road, then a regular mono headset -- like the one depicted in this article -- is probably more your cup of tea. This is not only to help you drive better, but also in the interest of driving safety. Let's not forget that certain states and countries have laws that govern talking on cell phones while driving, and some of these require the use of handsfree devices.

Manufacturers

There will likely be a near-limitless supply of accessories released by Apple itself for the iPhone. These will likely include a Bluetooth headset or two. At this time, however, there are no such products available, so you have to turn to the alternatives, which should theoretically be just as compatible.

On the one hand, you can go with headsets manufactured by companies that also make cell phones. These include Bluetooth accessories from folks like Motorola and Nokia. Alternatively, there are a number of companies that don't make cell phones, but specialize in accessories for cell phones and other portable electronics. Some of the more popular headset makers include Logitech, Jabra and Plantronics.

Ultimately, the choice is completely up to you, so shop around, read reviews and decide on the Apple iPhone Bluetooth headset that not only fits your budget, but also your sense of style, comfort and level of functionality.