Nordic Demonstrates Bluetooth Channel Sounding with nRF54L15 at Embedded World 2026

At Embedded World 2026, Nordic Semiconductor demonstrated Bluetooth Channel Sounding, a new capability that allows devices to measure distance using standard Bluetooth signals while maintaining the same security features built into the protocol. The demo showed how a smartphone can communicate with nearby hardware and calculate how far away it is with high accuracy. Using an nRF54L15 development kit connected to a smartphone running Android’s ranging tools, the system illustrated how Bluetooth could support applications such as secure entry systems where a device like a phone unlocks a door automatically when the user approaches.

Bluetooth Channel Sounding for Secure Distance Measurement

Bluetooth Channel Sounding enables devices to measure the distance between one another by analysing characteristics of the wireless signal rather than relying solely on signal strength. The technique uses phase-based measurements and time-of-flight calculations to determine how long it takes for signals to travel between devices. By combining these methods, the system can estimate distance with accuracy typically in the range of about half a meter to one meter.

This approach improves on traditional Bluetooth distance estimation methods that rely on RSSI, or received signal strength. RSSI measurements can fluctuate due to reflections or interference, making them easier to manipulate. Channel sounding adds additional validation by cross-checking measurements using both phase and timing information, which increases the reliability and security of ranging calculations for applications such as digital keys and access control systems.

Smartphone Integration and Android Ranging Support

The Embedded World demonstration paired a Nordic nRF54L15 development kit with a smartphone running channel sounding software. In the demo setup, a Google Pixel device was used to perform the ranging calculations while communicating with the Nordic hardware. Support for the Android Ranging Manager API allows smartphones to participate directly in distance measurements with compatible Bluetooth devices.

This integration highlights the growing ecosystem around Bluetooth ranging technologies. As more smartphones begin supporting channel sounding features, developers will be able to build products that interact directly with consumer devices without requiring additional dedicated hardware. This opens the door to applications such as smart locks, asset tracking systems, and proximity-based automation.

Low Power Bluetooth with the nRF54L15

The hardware used in the demo was the nRF54L15 development kit, which is designed to evaluate Nordic’s nRF54L15 wireless system-on-chip. The chip family builds on earlier Nordic platforms such as the nRF52 series while focusing on improved performance and energy efficiency for wireless applications.

According to Nordic, the nRF54L15 can deliver significantly improved energy efficiency compared to earlier generations, with reductions in power consumption of roughly 20 to 50 percent depending on the workload. Faster processing also means the processor can return to sleep more quickly after completing tasks, which helps extend battery life in devices that rely on low-power wireless communication.

Getting Started with Bluetooth Channel Sounding

Developers interested in experimenting with Bluetooth channel sounding can begin with Nordic development hardware such as the nRF54L15 DK. When paired with a compatible smartphone and supporting software, the platform allows engineers to explore distance measurement features and prototype applications that use secure Bluetooth ranging.

Nordic also provides learning resources through its online DevAcademy platform, which includes training materials covering Bluetooth Low Energy, Zephyr-based development, and related wireless technologies. These courses are designed to help developers build practical projects while learning how to work with Nordic hardware and wireless protocols.

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