Exploring the Future of Wireless Networks: Trends and Innovations to Watch Out For

Since the discovery of radio waves in 1880 wireless technologies are always in a constant state of evolution, vying to become better from the last version. And when it comes to the latest generation of wireless technology, it’s 5G that is the newest kid on the block. It promises to deliver faster speeds, higher capacities and lower latency. Not only that, the industry has also already moved on and is working on the next generation of wireless technology – 6G, which is also in the pipeline.

Since wireless technologies do not require large infrastructure, it’s easier for smaller companies to disrupt the industry and move in. Wireless technology also makes it possible to provide internet access to rural and remote communities that were hard to reach with wired access earlier. Some of the latest and upcoming wireless network trends and innovations to watch out for include the following:

5G

Even though the 5G network isn’t in full force everywhere as yet, this comparatively new wireless technology is expected to deliver higher speeds, considerably lower latency and a greater capacity to connect to more devices such as IoT-enabled devices. Speeds are expected to be one Gbps, with the potential for 10 Gbps.

6G

The 6G network is likely to be in commercial use within 10 years’ time. It’s expected to operate at frequencies of 100 GHz to 1 THz, with speeds going up to 100Gbps and offering even lower latency. Overall, the 6G network is expected to be able to handle a greater capacity, including hundreds to even thousands of connections – and with lower power requirements too!

MIMO Antennas

Massive MIMO (multiple input, multiple outputs) antennas will become an important technology for aiding 5G, and eventually 6G, networks. The massive MIMO system has greater capacity as it has the advantage of having numerous antennas, allowing multiple signals to be transported over the same radio channels at the same time.

LI-Fi

This all-new exciting wireless technology is similar to Wi-Fi, but instead of using radio waves, it uses visible light waves to send data. Development is focused on using LEDs to send data, so any LED bulb could become a wireless router with Li-Fi technology!