As Microsoft forges ahead with USB 2.0 and other advanced connection technologies, Bluetooth is still lagging Microsoft may be adding USB 2.0 to Windows XP this summer, but another advanced connection technology -- Bluetooth -- will not yet make the cut. After initially deferring support for Bluetooth indefinitely, when Windows XP was launched last year, Microsoft in December said it would make an XP Bluetooth stack available by this summer. However, since then the company's plans have changed -- in April Bill Gates said that a download adding Bluetooth functionality to Windows XP would not be available until this autumn.

Microsoft unveiled details of Windows XP Service Pack 1, the operating system's first major makeover, this week. The update will be available for free download from Microsoft's site this summer, adding the ability to more easily choose competitors' applications over those of Microsoft, as well as security fixes, USB 2.0 and other features. Bluetooth fulfils a similar function to USB connectors, but without wires. It is aimed at connecting peripherals such as printers, headphones, modems, mobile phones, handheld computers and other gadgets via a low-powered radio.