As IoT ecosystems evolve, developers will face the challenge of connecting devices to the cloud efficiently, yet securely. While Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity have traditionally dominated this space, Bluetooth devices are increasingly integrated into cloud workflows. For low-power, short-range devices, this unlocks new possibilities.
Bluetooth devices are widely used for sensors, wearables and other embedded applications. However, historically, streaming data from these devices to the cloud has been complex. For example, unlike Wi-Fi or cellular devices, Bluetooth devices lack an IP address, preventing them from connecting directly to cloud services.
Golioth: Your Serial Port to the Cloud
Golioth, an NXP partner specializing in cloud services, serves to bridge the gap between manufacturers and internet connectivity by providing a secure, production-ready IoT middleware solution for connecting embedded devices to the cloud. By supporting a seamless connection of devices to the cloud, Golioth empowers manufacturers to maximize data utility and improve operational efficiency.
Cloud connectivity typically focuses on devices that are directly connected through cellular or Wi-Fi. Golioth addresses this gap with Pouch, a solution that allows Bluetooth devices—which are typically not internet-ready—to communicate with the cloud through encrypted data packets transported through a gateway.
How Does Pouch Work?
Pouch serves as an encapsulation technology for Bluetooth data packets, allowing secure and sufficient transmission through a gateway to the cloud. This is achieved in the following ways:
- Encryption at the Source: Based on credentials provisioned for the device and project, the Bluetooth device uses a certificate and key pair to encrypt its data payload.
- Data Wrapping: The encrypted payload is packaged with headers and information into a “Pouch” that includes information about the device identity and project association.
- Gateway Transit: A gateway, such as NXP’s FRDM-RW612, forwards the Pouch packet to the Golioth cloud without decrypting or modifying the data, simply transporting it.
- Cloud Validation: When the packet reaches the Golioth cloud, the cloud checks the Root CA to verify the device certificate and confirms the gateway is authorized for the same project.
Collaboration with Zephyr
As a founding member of the Zephyr Project, NXP has contributed significantly to the community, providing a wireless portfolio that is supported by Zephyr. Building on this foundation, Golioth also integrates Zephyr for its cloud connectivity solutions. As an early adopter, Golioth benefits from Zephyr’s cross-platform capabilities and extensive vendor support, including seamless integration with NXP parts. This collaboration accelerates deployment for new Bluetooth platforms, enhancing Golioth’s ability to developers their products to market more efficiently.
Getting Started with NXP’s Bluetooth Gateway Solution
By utilizing NXP’s wireless development boards, the FRDM-RW612 and FRDM-MCX W71, developers can quickly get started with example code and connect their devices to the cloud. These boards specifically can be used as gateways for Bluetooth cloud connectivity.
Source: NXP blog
