Realtek has just released a new version of the RTL87x3E MCU Common SDK (v3.13.0.86). This version introduces some new features and updates that we hope you will find beneficial.

1. GATT over BR/EDR Support

Added support for GATT over BR/EDR. Prior to iOS 13.0, the only way to connect to Bluetooth classic devices for data communication was through iAP, which required the device to have MFi certification. With support for GATT over BR/EDR, devices no longer need iAP and MFi certification to perform data transmission with iOS devices via classic Bluetooth. This enhancement is particularly advantageous for products that use the BR/EDR link for data transmission. Additionally, the GATT over BR/EDR protocol, based on the L2CAP layer, theoretically offers faster transmission rates compared to those based on SPP/iAP.

2. Bluetooth PAN Profile Support

Added support for the Bluetooth PAN Profile. This implementation integrates third-party open-source lwIP and Mbed TLS, providing a sample demonstration of how to access Internet resources via Bluetooth PAN.

3. Enhanced BR/EDR Secure Connection and CTKD Support

Enhanced support for BR/EDR Secure Connection and CTKD. Bluetooth CTKD, a cross-transport key derivation security mechanism introduced in Bluetooth 4.2, is primarily used in Bluetooth dual-mode devices. It allows the LTK generated from Bluetooth LE pairing to be converted into the Link Key for classic Bluetooth pairing and vice versa, simplifying the pairing process by generating two keys in one pairing process for Bluetooth dual-mode devices.

4. Integrated Transceiver Support

Increased support for integrated transceivers. An integrated transceiver scenario is where the RTL87x3E SoC can support HFP AG/HF or A2DP Source/Sink simultaneously. The RTL87x3E acts as a gateway, connecting both the mobile phone and Bluetooth headset, handling the pass through of audio and call data between the phone and headset, while managing the communication links between the RTL87x3E, the phone, and the headset.

We will continue to improve and optimize the SDK and recommend using the latest version of the SDK for product development. If you encounter any issues during use, please provide feedback through our online website or FAE channels.