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Wi-Fi Sensing – Test Methodology and Performance Metrics
In 2020, WBA launched a Wi-Fi Sensing Whitepaper providing an overview of Wi-Fi Sensing technology, classifying use cases and requirements, and identifying the gaps in Wi-Fi standards which would lead to the enhancement of the technology and ease of deployment if those gaps are addressed with Home Monitoring case study.
Wi-Fi Sensing is a relatively new technology with no current standard currently in existence. While some applications can be enabled using existing standards, there are technology gaps that limit the range of applications. Today, a number of products are available which are based on existing Wi-Fi standards, and the IEEE has recently formed a new task group, 802.11bf, that will focus on creating and improving existing standards specific to sensing applications. As this technology becomes more widely available, there is a great deal of interest within the industry looking towards evaluating and testing it. However, there is currently no standard methodology outlining how it should be validated, what tools to use, or what external factors impact the behavior.
5G and Wi-Fi RAN Convergence
In 2019, the WBA and NGMN created a RAN Convergence White Paper to address some of the challenges outlined in creating a streamlined and seamless integration between both Wi-Fi and cellular access with the cellular operator core.
As society increasingly depends on fast reliable data connectivity, the WBA believes an important capability for the industry is the convergence at a network level between 5G and Wi-Fi, so that the unique and complementary capabilities of both RANs can be leveraged to provide seamless network services. Bearing in mind that a significant amount of data traffic from smartphones uses a Wi-Fi access, this will lead to a better user experience and create new business opportunities for both Wi-Fi and cellular providers.
OpenRoaming F&B Retail
Coffee shops, cafés, bars and restaurants have long taken advantage of Wi-Fi to enhance their customers’ experience by connecting them to the internet, enabling them to browse menu options, check out offers and building loyalty.
OpenRoaming Retail
Retailers have long taken advantage of Wi-Fi to enhance their customers’ shopping experience by connecting them to the internet, enabling them to browse before making in-store purchases, sending offers and building loyalty as well as adding applications that enable the tracking of footfall and shopping journeys within the stores.
