PROJECT DESCRIPTION

TRENDS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Wi-Fi is expanding across diverse applications, with Wi-Fi 7 and the 6 GHz spectrum enabling multi-Gbps throughput, sub-10ms latency, and under 0.1% packet loss. However, emerging technologies like AI/ML, AR/VR/XR, industrial IoT, and robotics demand even higher throughput, reduced latency, greater reliability, and improved power and spectrum efficiency.

Wi-Fi 8, based on the IEEE 802.11bn standard, will address these needs by enhancing Wi-Fi reliability for next-gen applications. This ultra-high reliability (UHR) standard will improve coordination between P2P devices and networks, providing the necessary performance for real-time, mission-critical use cases like autonomous systems and advanced industrial automation.

BUSINESS & MARKET BENEFITS

The Wi-Fi 8 project provides significant business and market advantages by enabling WBA members to engage early with upcoming technologies and identify new opportunities. By starting early, members gain insights into Wi-Fi 8’s capabilities, business implications, and potential network deployments, allowing them to make informed strategic decisions.

This early collaboration also creates a competitive advantage for WBA members, as they will be better prepared for Wi-Fi 8 deployment and certification processes. Upon completion of the 802.11bn specification and Wi-Fi 8 certification, the project will include field trials, providing valuable data for Wi-Fi 8 readiness, helping members stay ahead of the curve in network deployment and service delivery. This proactive approach ultimately fosters innovation, business growth, and customer satisfaction.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

  • Develop an industry guideline outlining key Wi-Fi 8 use cases, business opportunities, and adoption requirements.
  • Engage early with IEEE 802.11bn during specification development to address industry concerns and ensure essential features are integrated into Wi-Fi 8 certification.
  • Collaborate industry partners such as with IEEE and Wi-Fi Alliance to align with industry standards and certification.
  • Launch WBA Wi-Fi 8 field trials to provide real-world data and assess network readiness for deployment, building on WBA’s prior successes with Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 7.

KEY PARTICIPANTS