Dialog Launches Ultra‑Low‑Cost DA14531 SmartBond TINY BLE Module

Dialog Semiconductor plc has unveiled its fully certified DA14531 SmartBond TINY module. Designed to dramatically cut the cost of adding Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connectivity to IoT devices, the module sets a new industry benchmark with a price below $0.50 per unit. It is ideal for connected consumer, medical, smart‑home, and appliance applications.

“The launch of the SmartBond TINY DA14531 SoC in 2019 set a new industry benchmark for BLE SoC pricing, at less than 50 cents,” said Sean McGrath, Senior VP, Connectivity and Audio BG, Dialog Semiconductor, in a statement. “The DA14531 module further leverages the capabilities of the SoC, including an integrated antenna and all required components, to add BLE functionality to an IoT system in high volumes at a cost of under $1.”

“Not only does this module break barriers in cost and power, it is also exceptionally user‑friendly for both beginners and experts, ensuring that all customers can benefit from its high level of integration and programmable ease of use,” he added.

The BLE module incorporates two unique software features that eliminate the complexity often associated with traditional BLE development. The configurable Dialog Serial Port Service (DSPS) software emulates a UART serial port over BLE, while Dialog’s new Codeless software replaces complex code with simple, human‑readable ASCII commands that can be used to generate customer applications.

DA14531 SmartBond TINY module. (Source: Dialog Semiconductor)

In addition, the DSPS removes the need to write Bluetooth software for “BLE Pipe” applications when connecting the module to a host MCU’s serial port, and Codeless uses the industry‑standard Hayes AT‑style command set to configure and operate the module.

The hand‑solderable stamp‑type module measures 12.5 × 14.5 mm, offers nine GPIOs, and integrates all external components—including passives, crystal, antenna, and flash memory—reducing design complexity and the bill of materials.

The SmartBond TINY module is fully certified for worldwide operation, holding FCC certification for the Americas and CE certification for Europe. Dialog has future‑proofed the module with Bluetooth 5.1 compliance and support for over‑the‑air software updates.

The DA14531 SoC and module are currently available for sampling and purchase via Digi‑Key.