On May 5, 2026, the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) formally adopted Core Specification 6.3 and simultaneously released the associated TCRL pkg103. As a key milestone under the SIG’s new biannual release cycle, the updated specification delivers tangible improvements in ranging accuracy, interface capacity, and RF energy efficiency. The following sections detail the core upgrades, industry impact, and certification timeline.

I. Core Upgrade Highlights

1. Core 6.3 supersedes previous versions, incorporates TSE (Technical Specification Editing) maintenance updates, and fixes errata identified in Core TCRL_p9.

2. IOPT (Improved Power Optimisation Testing), HIDS (adapted to version 1.1), and HOGP (adapted to version 1.2) have all been updated to align with the new specification.

3. GATTBased, MESH, and legacy protocols (such as Classic Bluetooth and LE fundamentals) remain unchanged since pkg102 and earlier versions, ensuring test case continuity.

4. To keep pace with rapid technological evolution, the Bluetooth SIG has fixed the core specification release cycle at twice per year, while TCRL updates will occur 3–4 times annually (including mandatory updates tied to core specs and supplementary updates for non-core specifications). Companies should closely monitor these milestones.

▲Image source: SIG Official Website

II. Industry Impact

The new specification takes immediate effect, meaning:

All newly certified products must be tested against Core 6.3 and TCRL pkg103; older standards will be phased out after a transition period.

Previously certified products that involve changed modules such as HIDS or HOGP should be evaluated for potential supplementary testing or re-declaration.

The stability of unchanged modules helps reduce regression testing costs for some products, but overall compliance requirements are elevated with each update.

III. Certification Available Now

The Bluetooth SIG has confirmed that all Bluetooth members may submit certification applications under the new specifications starting today. We recommend that companies promptly review their product portfolios, cross?reference the TCRL change list, and develop adaptation plans to ensure uninterrupted global market access.

BTL - As a professional testing institution deeply engaged in Bluetooth certification, we have mobilized our technical team at the earliest opportunity to conduct in-depth research on Core Specification 6.3 and TCRL Package 103, as well as complete equipment capability adaptation.

Whether you require certification for newly launched products or differential supplementary testing for existing models, BTL delivers one-stop services covering standard interpretation, test case execution and report submission.

We boast a team of seasoned wireless compliance specialists and test facilities fully compliant with the latest regulatory requirements. We can help you promptly identify the impacts of standard revisions, optimize testing strategies and significantly shorten your certification timeline.

Reach out to BTL today. We will support your products in smoothly meeting the new specification requirements and pave the way for your global market expansion!