How much does it cost to use Bluetooth in a new device under development?

Question

Bluetooth

Question. A device is being developed that takes measurements and there is a need for wireless data transmission using Bluetooth. I can't figure out if you need to join the Bluetooth SIG in order to use bluetooth, which costs a tidy sum of 8000 dollars.
I found this information on Habré :

When designing products that use Bluetooth, you can join the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) for an additional fee of $8,000. Membership in this organization provides additional opportunities, such as using the secure Bluetooth protocol in new devices.
Here, too, at the initial stage, it is beneficial to use the developed and debugged modules that have passed certification. Thus, the need to join the Bluetooth SIG is eliminated, reducing costs.

I don’t understand a little - is it possible to take some standard module / board for data transfer via bluetooth_ that has been certified, insert it into the device and use it further without any deductions to the Bluetooth SIG?
In the above quote, the phrase about the "initial stage" is confusing. What's next?
The device is intended to be used in the EU, so all regulations must be followed.

Answer 1

Bluetooth is royalty-free (unlike Z-wave in particular).