The first WiFi 7 routers hit the market in 2024, in addition to the first smartphones and devices compatible with the new standard. Compared to WiFi 6, this is a notable improvement thanks to the fact that it uses twice as much bandwidth, with a theoretical limit of 23 Gbps. The reader might therefore be surprised that not only has WiFi 8 just been announced, but your speed will be exactly the same.
Indeed, instead of increasing the transfer speed, the Wi-Fi Alliance (the non-governmental organization behind the development of this wireless technology) and MediaTek have decided to change priorities. This means that WiFi 8 is extremely similar to WiFi 7
And yet, WiFi 8 has the potential to be a revolution in wireless connection; The priority was not placed on speed, but on improving the quality of the connection, especially when using several devices simultaneously. The Wi-Fi Alliance thus responds to a growing trend: the smart home and the increase in portable devices and the Internet of Things. Many homes already have multiple routers installed, with mesh networks to cover the entire area and allow for a greater number of connections.
MediaTek’s proposal means completely change the way devices connect to the routerand change access points between different routers. It makes sense: WiFi was originally a technology born to connect a laptop to a router, but it has long since expanded to all types of devices and connection points.
The new WiFi 8 standard should encourage the use of multiple routers and connection points, so that devices can switch from one to another depending on the situation and connection requests.
Some of the technologies that will enable this already exist, such as adjusting power based on nearby devices introduced by WiFi 6, but they have been “matured” and improved to improve data flow. Other technologies are in development, such as one that activates when two devices are side by side and want a connection at the same time; in this case, access points (such as routers) They will be able to “discuss” among themselves to decide who is in charge. of each device.
It should be noted that the WiFi 8 standard is not finished; It is a process that lasts several years, and in fact, The final version will not be released until September 2028and the first devices should arrive on the market a few months later. So there is no problem in buying a WiFi 7 device now and enjoying its benefits.
