U-blox Launches New Bluetooth Modules Featuring Nordic Semiconductor Chips

u-blox, a global leader in positioning and wireless communication technologies, has unveiled two new modules in its Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) portfolio, named ALMA-B1 and NORA-B2. These modules are integrated with the latest nRF54 Series Systems-on-Chip (SoCs) from Nordic Semiconductor, supporting Bluetooth LE 5.4 and Thread/Matter technologies. Designed for varying IoT applications such as industrial automation, healthcare, and smart homes, ALMA-B1 and NORA-B2 aim to provide power-efficient, compact, and secure wireless solutions.

The ALMA-B1 module, being a high-end wireless microcontroller unit (MCU), and NORA-B2, designed for ultra-low power applications, are both grounded in Nordic's nRF54H20 and nRF54L15 SoCs, respectively. These modules not only offer robust processing capabilities enabling edge computing and machine learning without external components but also highlight a significant leap in power efficiency. In particular, NORA-B2 shows a reduction in power consumption by up to 50% compared to its predecessors.

Security is a top priority for both modules, with designs aimed at achieving PSA Certified Level 3, incorporating features for physical tamper detection and protection against side-channel attacks. Compact in size, these modules also facilitate easy migration from other u-blox modules, supporting global certifications. Furthermore, both ALMA-B1 and NORA-B2 offer two antenna options, catering to different application needs.

Thomas Holmberg, Regional Sales Director at Nordic Semiconductor, expressed enthusiasm about the integration of the nRF54 Series into u-blox's modules, highlighting their potential to revolutionize IoT products with their advanced power efficiency and ultra-low power capabilities.