BLUETOOTH GUIDE
Paired vs connected
vs nearby.
These terms sound similar, but they refer to different Bluetooth states. Keeping them separate helps explain why a device can look present in one list and absent in another.
PAIRED
A paired device is one that has been associated with your Windows system before. Pairing is a history and setup state, not always a current live session.
CONNECTED
A connected device is one Windows currently reports as connected. This is a live status and is usually the clearest signal for a device that is actively interacting with the system.
NEARBY
A nearby device is one that is in range and advertising using Bluetooth radio signals, such as BLE advertisements. It may not be paired or connected at all.
WHY IT MATTERS
BatteryPulse intentionally separates these states because a paired device, connected device, and nearby advertisement can each represent a different operational reality.
Want a quick summary?
Use the FAQ for a plain-language explanation of connection, Bluetooth scanning, and current product limits.