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Bluetooth Device Address (BD_ADDR) Lookup Tool
General info
Bluetooth Device Addres (BF_ADDR) is an identifier assigned to Bluetooth device by its manufacturer and is unique.
Bluetooth Device Address Structure
48-bit bluetooth device address consists of 16-bit NAP (Non-significant Address), 8-bit UAP (Upper Address Part) and 24-bit LAP (Lower Address Part). Most-significant 24 bits (NAP + UAP) makes up the Organizationally Unique Identifier (OUI) assigned to manufacturers by IEEE Registration Authority.
What each part of BD_ADDR are used for?
- NAP - encryption initiation
- UAP - an initiator for calculation of Header Error Check (HEC) and Cyclic redundancy check (CRC), also used for frequency hopping
- LAP - is used as the synchronization word at the beginning of each bluetooth packet.
Location: Piscataway, New Jersey, United States of America
IEEE is the world's largest technical professional organization dedicated to advancing technology for the benefit of humanity. IEEE Registration Authority deals with assigning unique identifiers to manufacturers. Obtaining registered identifiers is payable and cost depends on below block size:
- MAC Address Block Large (MA-L)
- MAC Address Block Medium (MA-M)
- MAC Address Block Small (MA-S)
Here are some interesting trivia facts about Bluetooth Device Address lookup
Unique Identifier
Similar to MAC addresses in wired networks, Bluetooth devices also have unique identifiers known as Bluetooth device addresses or Bluetooth MAC addresses. These addresses are essential for identifying and communicating with Bluetooth-enabled devices within range.
48-Bit Address Format
Bluetooth device addresses are typically 48 bits in length and are represented in hexadecimal format. They consist of three parts: a 24-bit company identifier (assigned by the Bluetooth SIG), followed by a 24-bit unique identifier assigned by the company.
Bluetooth Device Tracking
Just like MAC addresses in Wi-Fi networks, Bluetooth device addresses can be used for tracking and location-based services. Retailers, advertisers, and venue operators may use Bluetooth beacons or sensors to detect and track Bluetooth-enabled devices within their premises for analytics, marketing, or operational purposes.
Bluetooth Address Randomization
To address privacy concerns related to device tracking, many Bluetooth devices support address randomization. This feature enables devices to periodically change their Bluetooth addresses to prevent long-term tracking by third parties.
Proximity-Based Services
Bluetooth address lookup is used in proximity-based services and applications, such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons. These beacons emit Bluetooth signals that can be detected by nearby devices, enabling location-aware services, indoor navigation, and targeted advertising based on the proximity of Bluetooth-enabled devices.
Bluetooth SIG Database
The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) maintains a database of Bluetooth device addresses and related information. This database helps manufacturers register their Bluetooth devices and obtain unique identifiers for interoperability and compatibility purposes.
Security Considerations
While Bluetooth address lookup can facilitate various useful applications, it also raises security concerns. Malicious actors may attempt to intercept or spoof Bluetooth addresses for unauthorized access, tracking, or attacks. Implementing secure pairing mechanisms and encryption protocols can help mitigate these risks.
Cross-Platform Compatibility
Bluetooth address lookup can be performed across different operating systems and platforms using appropriate tools and APIs. Developers can leverage Bluetooth APIs provided by operating systems like iOS, Android, Windows, and Linux to discover nearby Bluetooth devices and retrieve their addresses for various applications.