Software⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-15

How to Fix: gatttool Function not implemented error

Troubleshooting Bluetooth connection issues with gatttool on Ubuntu 16.04.

Quick Answer: Check the hci0 event log for errors and try using a different BLE device to isolate the issue.

The 'Function not implemented' error is a common issue that occurs when trying to connect to Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) peripherals using gatttool on Ubuntu 16.04. This error affects users who are unable to establish a stable connection with their BLE devices, resulting in frustration and inconvenience.

The problem of the 'Function not implemented' error can be particularly vexing, especially when other connections work without issue. However, by following the steps outlined below, users should be able to resolve this issue and successfully connect to their BLE peripherals.

⚠️ Common Causes

  • The primary reason for the 'Function not implemented' error is a lack of support for the specific Bluetooth protocol version being used by the peripheral device. gatttool requires specific versions of the BLE protocol to be supported in order to function correctly.
  • An alternative cause for this error could be related to issues with the Linux kernel or other system components, which may not be properly configured or updated.

🛠️ Step-by-Step Verified Fixes

Update and configure the Linux kernel

  1. Step 1: Open a terminal on your Ubuntu 16.04 system and run the command `sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get upgrade` to ensure that all necessary packages are up-to-date.
  2. Step 2: Next, run the command `sudo modprobe -r btusb` followed by `sudo modprobe btusb` to reload the Bluetooth module with the latest drivers.
  3. Step 3: Finally, run the command `gatttool --version` to verify that gatttool is functioning correctly and has been updated to support the required BLE protocol version.

Use an alternative BLE connection tool

  1. Step 1: Instead of using gatttool, try connecting to your peripheral device using bluetoothctl. This command-line tool provides a more comprehensive set of options and may be better suited for resolving the 'Function not implemented' error.
  2. Step 2: To connect to your peripheral device using bluetoothctl, run the command `bluetoothctl info ` followed by `bluetoothctl connect `. Note that you should replace `` with the actual address of your peripheral device.

✨ Wrapping Up

By following these steps and addressing the root causes of the 'Function not implemented' error, users should be able to successfully connect to their BLE peripherals using gatttool on Ubuntu 16.04. Remember to regularly update and configure your system components to ensure optimal performance.

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