Bluetooth communication

Hi,
I am completely new to developing for Garmin but do have a few years of development experience.
When I read the api documentation it seems like Bluetooth communication requires the Garmin app to be installed on the phone.

At least that is one possible interpretation of the api when I read it.

Can I, using the SDK and the available API, send data/messages back and forth over bluetooth to any device that is listening (using my self written application)?
Or is there is a need to somehow have all communication happen via the Garmin app in some way?

Sorry if it's a dumb question but the API documentation isn't completely clear to me on the communications module.
Any help is appreciated Slight smile

  • Former Member
    0 Former Member over 6 years ago

    Welcome to the Garmin developer community! Not a dumb question. Slight smile

    Currently, you are correct. Bluetooth communication utilizes the phone and is a bit more limited. However, we announced our 3.1.0 Beta SDK in April at our Developer Summit and one of the new features is direct BLE communication. You can download the SDK and Eclipse Plugin here: https://developer.garmin.com/connect-iq/sdk/

    So glad to have you in the community!