Low power operation in a personal area network communication system

A method for low power operation in a personal area network communication system including a master device operable to host the personal area network and a slave device operable on the personal area network, the method comprising the steps of:

• defining a low power operational mode of an accessory device wherein the accessory device is substantially disconnected from the personal area network;
• providing a user-actuated mechanism of the accessory device to direct the accessory device to enter the low power operational mode;
• activating the mechanism of the accessory device to direct the entry of the accessory device into the low power operational mode;
• and
• communicating the low power operational mode from the accessory device to the radiotelephone over the personal area network.

A portable personal area network accessory device with a low power operational mode, the accessory device comprising:

• a battery with a power capacity, the battery providing power to components within the accessory device;
• a transceiver included within the accessory device, the transceiver adapted to input and output information;
• a connectivity interface coupled to the transceiver, the interface for transceiving information between the accessory device and the personal area network;
• a processor coupled to the transceiver and interface, the processor adapted to operate in conjunction with the low power and full power operational modes of the accessory device;
• and
• a user-actuated mechanism coupled to the processor, wherein upon actuation, the mechanism can direct the processor to enter either of the low power operational mode and full power operational mode, wherein the processor disconnects and connects, respectively, the connectivity interface.