1000 years behind your Bluetooth icon

Every time you tap your phone to connect to headphones or a speaker, you are interacting with a symbol that is woven into the fabric of modern technology. Take a closer look at the Bluetooth icon—that little angular glyph, composed of two triangular blades meeting at a vertical line. It is far more than just an abstract design; it holds a fascinating piece of ancient history.

This seemingly simple icon is rooted in the annals of Viking lore. The specific shape you see is built from the initials of a powerful king who reigned more than a thousand years ago, a figure whose legacy stretches back to the Nordic world.

The design draws directly from the runes used during the time of this ancient ruler. It is a subtle nod to Scandinavia’s deep historical roots and demonstrates how enduring stories can inform even our most advanced gadgets.

By Ava Taylor