We get a lot of questions about Bluetooth and how it works in water.

Bluetooth (BT) is a standard for communication between devices, and can be used to send audio from a source (like an iPhone) to a receiver (like BT headphones). All BT devices use 2.4GHz radio frequency—which does not work well in water. This is due to laws of physics, as water molecules attenuate the signal. When any Bluetooth device is put underwater, the range is just few inches. Also, Bluetooth is a low-power system and the range in air is about 30ft/10m.

There are many ways to swim while using Bluetooth, however it takes some understanding of the technology and your devices. This image shows a man preparing to swim with a waterproof music player and headphones from H2O Audio.

So, how can you use Bluetooth with swimming?

A: Your Bluetooth source is on land (side of the pool):

You will need to be within the Bluetooth range of 30ft/10m and the STREAM or SURGE BT needs to be above the surface.

Many customers have put their phone on the side of the pool and have been very successful with this. Clip the STREAM on top of your head and this will keep it from submerging and the best way to maintain connection.

 

B: Your Bluetooth music source is with you:

Some customers use their Apple Watch as the music source. The Apple Watch can send music to INTERVAL

If you want try to use SURGE BT or STREAM player - In this case, you have to taken the Apple Watch off your wrist and strap it on your goggles near the SURGE BT or STREAM. Not optimal, but it works well.

 

C: Other Alternatives?

Also - if you are looking to listen to streaming music, there are other options:

  • Like we described in a previous blog. You can use your phone and our Amphibx case. Here.
  • STREAM player: You can download/record streaming music to memory and play from memory: (due to copyright issues Spotify/Pandora do not allow access to the files). You will need to use an audio recorder—such as https://www.apowersoft.com/free-audio-recorder-online.  You can play your stations on the laptop during the day—and have a powersoft record the station and create the MP3 files. Then simply copy that file to the STREAM player like any other MP3 file. It is super easy and works really well.

 

I hope that helps.

Sincerely,

Kristian

 

    Leave a comment

    Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

    This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

    Latest Stories

    View all

    Happy Holidays from the H2O Audio Team! 🎄🎧

    Happy Holidays from the H2O Audio Team! 🎄🎧

    As the year winds down, we want to take a moment to wish you and your loved ones a joyful and relaxing holiday season. Whether you’re staying active, spending time with family, or just taking a much-needed break, we hope...

    Read more

    Celebrating Jenna Bullbrook’s Incredible Performance at the Ironman World Championship 70.3!

    Celebrating Jenna Bullbrook’s Incredible Performance at the Ironman World Championship 70.3!

    At H2O Audio, we are thrilled to congratulate our ambassador, Jenna Bullbrook, on her outstanding performance at the Vinfast Ironman World Championship 70.3 in Taupo New Zealand! Competing among the best athletes in the world, Jenna finished 39th in her age...

    Read more

    🎁 Don’t Miss Out: H2O Audio’s Holiday Sale is Here!

    🎁 Don’t Miss Out: H2O Audio’s Holiday Sale is Here!

    The holidays are upon us, and there’s no better time to give the gift of adventure! Whether you’re shopping for an athlete, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone who just loves music wherever life takes them, H2O Audio has the perfect...

    Read more

    Training for the Black Canyon 100K with Heather Jackson: A Look Behind the Scenes

    Training for the Black Canyon 100K with Heather Jackson: A Look Behind the Scenes

    If you're a fan of endurance sports or simply someone who loves to see how top athletes prepare for their biggest challenges, then Heather Jackson's Build to Black Canyon 100K series on YouTube is a must-watch. As she gears up...

    Read more