Bluetooth is a wireless technology that allows devices like mobile phones, computers, and other devices to connect and transmit voice and data without cables. It was named after the 10th century Danish king Harald Blatand who unified Denmark and Norway. The technology was developed in 1994 by Ericsson and later standardized by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group in 1998. Bluetooth works by establishing short-range radio links between devices within about 30 feet of each other. It has advantages like wireless connectivity, low energy consumption, and low cost but disadvantages include a limited data transfer rate and range. Future development aims to further integrate Bluetooth into consumer products to provide benefits like ease of use.