Bluetooth is nothing more than a wireless means of communication.

If you have a phone and want to connect it to anything else - say a car kit, an ear piece, or a PDA - it allows a radio based, wire-free communication between the two devices, with no need for any hardware or trailing wires to join the two things together.

For example, a Bluetooth headset allows you to move around freely whilst you are on a call.

Bluetooth communication is better than infra red, because infra red relies on 'line of sight' and is less reliable. With Bluetooth the two devices can be 5 metres apart and still communicate perfectly with no physical connection.

The in-car systems are very good, since they incorporate a discretely installed microphone and speaker powered by the car battery. With most makes the Bluetooth hands free kit will automatically turn down your car radio when you make or receive a call. Many people find a Bluetooth headset beneficial because it's easy to use, with no installation and no trailing wires.

Lots of people use them as they're walking about and the phone can stay in the pocket or briefcase when it's not in use.

There is one minor disadvantage with a Bluetooth headset, however. It must have its own internal battery which, because it has to be so small, needs to be regularly recharged.

With Bluetooth, you can use your laptop computer while your phone is in your pocket and you are on the internet or reading emails. If a phone call comes in, you can still answer your handset, even if you are in the middle of a data session. The session is merely suspended until you have finished the voice call.

All in all, Bluetooth has much to commend it.