How to update Intel Bluetooth driver

Bluetooth button
Bluetooth button (Image via Pixabay/PublicDomainPictures)

A Bluetooth driver is a software program that allows Bluetooth-enabled devices to communicate with each other by facilitating the wireless exchange of data over short distances. They are required for the proper functioning of Bluetooth devices on a computer or laptop. The driver controls the hardware on the computer and enables it to interact with other Bluetooth-enabled devices, such as smartphones, tablets, headphones, speakers, and other peripherals.

A computer or laptop typically comes pre-installed with Bluetooth drivers created and developed by manufacturers such as Intel, Broadcom, and Realtek. However, they may need to be updated periodically to fix bugs, improve performance, or add new features.

Bluetooth connectivity (Image via Pixabay/200 Degrees)
Bluetooth connectivity (Image via Pixabay/200 Degrees)

Identify model of your Intel Bluetooth driver

Each model of an Intel Bluetooth driver has a unique set of specifications, features, and capabilities that differentiate it from other models. Intel produces a wide range of Bluetooth devices, including wireless adapters, chipsets, and modules designed for use in laptops, desktops, and other computing devices.

Some popular Intel Bluetooth drivers include the Intel Wireless-AC 8265, Intel Wireless-AC 9560, and Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265. The model of the Intel Bluetooth device can be identified through the Device Manager on a Windows-based computer or by checking the product documentation or label on the device.

Knowing the Intel Bluetooth driver model is important when updating or downloading the correct driver software for the device. To identify the model of your Intel Bluetooth device, follow these steps:

  1. Press the Windows key + X, and select "Device Manager."
  2. Look for "Bluetooth" in the list and expand it.
  3. Find your Intel Bluetooth device and right-click on it.
  4. Select "Properties" and then click on the "Details" tab.
  5. Select "Hardware IDs" from the Property dropdown list.

Note down the VEN and DEV values (e.g. VEN_8086&DEV_24F3).

Hardware IDs (Image via Sportskeeda)
Hardware IDs (Image via Sportskeeda)

The VEN value represents the device's Vendor ID, while the DEV value represents the Device ID. These values can be used to search for the correct driver for your Intel Bluetooth driver on the Intel Download Center or other driver download websites.


Download latest driver from Intel website

Downloading the latest driver for your Intel Bluetooth device is important in ensuring optimal performance and compatibility with other Bluetooth devices. It is recommended to periodically check for updates to ensure that the driver is up-to-date with the latest fixes and features.

To download the latest driver from the Intel website, follow these steps:

  1. Go to the Intel Download Center (https://downloadcenter.intel.com/).
  2. Enter the VEN and DEV values in the search bar.
  3. Download the latest driver that matches your operating system.

Install driver

Installing the driver for your Intel Bluetooth device is a simple process that involves running an installation wizard. The driver installation process is necessary to ensure that your Bluetooth device works correctly with your computer and that you can use all of its features. To install the driver, follow the steps below:

  1. Locate the downloaded file on your computer and double-click on it to launch the installation wizard.
  2. Follow the on-screen prompts to accept the license agreement, select the installation location, and complete the installation process.
  3. Once the installation is complete, restart your computer to apply the changes. After restarting, check the Device Manager to verify that the driver has been installed correctly and that the Bluetooth device is recognized by the computer.
  4. If there are any issues, you can try uninstalling and reinstalling the driver or contacting Intel support for assistance.

Latest Bluetooth version

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Bluetooth 5.3 is the latest version and comes with a host of new features and improvements designed to enhance the reliability, speed, and efficiency of Bluetooth connections between devices.

One of the major new features in Bluetooth 5.3 is connection sub-rating, which allows devices to transition between low and high-duty cycles quickly and efficiently, reducing power consumption and improving connectivity.

Another significant improvement is the channel classification enhancement, which allows peripheral devices to perform channel classification, resulting in lower packet collisions, boosted throughput, and better reliability of the connection. This is a major improvement over previous versions of Bluetooth, where only the central device could perform channel classification.

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