The ZigBee Alliance unifies multiple ZigBee wireless networking technologies into a single standard-- ZigBee 3.0, a means enabling communications between multiple devices in both residential and enterprise applications.
ZigBee 3.0 is IEEE 802.15.4-based, operates at 2.4GHz and uses ZigBee PRO, the group's standard for network formation and the devices attached to them. However it lacks 2 ZigBee specs, namely Smart Energy 2.0 (an IP-based profile) and RF4CE (a ZigBee version geared at remote controls).
“Underneath the covers we are accommodating these multiple applications in a single standard, so ZigBee thermostats, for example, can be used in either home or office buildings,” the Alliance says.
However the ZigBee Alliance faces a crowded low-power networking market-- competing Internet of Things (IoT) standards include Qualcomm's AllJoyN technology and Nest's Thread Group, as well as familiar protocols such as Z-Wave, Bluetooth Low Energy and 6LoWPAN.
Either way ZigBee 3.0 is currently available in draft form for Alliance members, and should be ratified by Q4 2015.
Go ZigBee 3.0 Creates Single, Open Global Wireless Standard for Devices
