Can I use TI BLE chip but not pay qualification cost if I don't call my product Bluetooth-enabled?

To add a bit more,

If you are not going to brand it as a "Bluetooth" product, then you can skip the qualification step. But if you are going to sell your product, make sure it is FCC certified. It would be easier to use modules: http://processors.wiki.ti.com/index.php/CC254X_Module_Partners

that are pre-certified for FCC/IC which might be more economical.

Hi Zahid, 

Our device is using TI BLE module.

I was told if we don't put Bluetooth logo in the packaging and manual, we don't have to pay for the listing fee.

Is this true? Is there a website we can refer t o?

If we don't pay for the listing fee,  can we briefly mention Bluetooth in packaging / manual. Since we have to guide the user on how to use our device. 

Hi Mike,

Please check our wiki:

http://processors.wiki.ti.com/index.php/How_to_Certify_your_Bluetooth_product

It looks like they added a new incentive for small companies.

Thanks! I saw the link before and $2.5k incentive program and we're not qualified for it. 

I was thinking that if we can get away with listing fee $8k? 

I read in forums, as long there is no BT logo, we don't have to pay for it. 

But I couldn't verify if this info is legit. 

Bluetooth is based on a  patent pool where various companies contributed intellectual property; use of that patent pool is governed by licensing agreements.

I am not a lawyer, but my understanding is that if one builds a product using Bluetooth technologies, then one must comply with Bluetooth licensing requirements.  This would be true regardless of how the product is branded.

Nice. This answers my questions. 

Hi Mike,

Richard is correct on this. Officially, you will need to qualify to release a Bluetooth product. Of course there are grey zones, but why take the chance.

Best Regards

Joakim