[Netcom]Wi-Fi 7 is quickly becoming the standard in Netcom equipment, and demand is increasing day by day. – UAnalyze

Wi-Fi 7 represents a significant advancement in Wi-Fi technology, offering substantial performance and flexibility improvements. The maximum transmission rate has been increased to 46 Gbps, a nearly fivefold increase from the 9.6 Gbps of the previous generation, Wi-Fi 6. These high transfer rates are ideal for applications demanding substantial data transfer, such as 4K/8K video streaming and virtual reality (VR).

(Source: Qualcomm)

One of Wi-Fi 7’s key innovations is multi-link operation (MLO). While previous Wi-Fi generations supported dual-band and tri-band operations, they might only utilize a single frequency band for data transmission. Wi-Fi 7 leverages MLO technology, allowing connected devices to send and receive data simultaneously across the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz frequency bands. This significantly enhances data transmission efficiency and network flexibility.

(Source: MediaTek official website)

Furthermore, Wi-Fi 7 employs 4096-QAM modulation technology, exceeding the data transmission efficiency of Wi-Fi 6’s 1024-QAM. The channel width has also been increased from 160 MHz in Wi-Fi 6 to 320 MHz, further enhancing the transmission capability of a single channel. These technological advancements contribute to Wi-Fi 7’s enhanced flexibility and broader market potential in enterprise and industrial environments.

The Internet of Things is driving the demand for higher data rates and reduced latency. As more devices connect to the internet, data transmission volumes grow exponentially, posing challenges for existing Wi-Fi networks. This increasing pressure necessitates solutions, and Wi-Fi 7 provides a breakthrough in data rate, frequency band utilization, latency, and network capacity. This lays a solid foundation for future wireless communication applications, particularly in high-demand enterprise and industrial scenarios, demonstrating its significant potential.

Wi-Fi 7 penetration rate in mobile phone devices is expected to exceed 25% in 2025

According to IDC’s “Global Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracking Report”, global smartphone shipments are expected to increase by 4.0% year-on-year in 2024, reaching 1.21 billion units. Consumer demand is expected to gradually rebound from its recent sluggish state. Shipments are projected to continue growing at 2.3% in 2025 and maintain low-single-digit growth over the forecast period. The five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) is estimated to be 2.3%.

Industry experts estimate that the penetration rate of smartphones equipped with Wi-Fi 7 will be around 6% to 8% in 2024. As the applications supported by Wi-Fi 7 expand, major manufacturers are expected to launch Wi-Fi 7-enabled phones in 2025. High-end flagship models, including iPhone, Samsung, Vivo, Xiaomi, Oppo, etc., are anticipated to increase the penetration rate of Wi-Fi 7 to exceed 25%-30%.

The penetration rate of Wi-Fi 7 in Netcom equipment is expected to exceed 40% in 2025

IDC predicts that the penetration rate of Wi-Fi 7 network equipment will be approximately 10%-15% in 2024. This includes devices such as Wi-Fi routers, wireless access points, network switches, network firewalls, wireless controllers, and IoT devices. These devices facilitate wireless network connections, extend network coverage, and connect and manage multiple network devices.

As major smartphone brands progressively adopt Wi-Fi 7 technology, the penetration rate of these network devices will continue to rise. IDC forecasts that it will exceed 40% by 2025, indicating that a growing number of households and businesses will transition to devices supporting Wi-Fi 7.

Wi-Fi 7: The Future of Wireless Connectivity

Wi-Fi 7 is a significant evolution in Wi-Fi technology, bringing forth substantial performance and flexibility improvements. This next-generation standard is poised to revolutionize how we connect and interact with the digital world. Let’s delve into the key advancements offered by Wi-Fi 7 and explore its potential impact on various aspects of our lives.

Key Features of Wi-Fi 7

Increased Data Transmission Rates

One of the standout features of Wi-Fi 7 is its remarkable increase in maximum data transmission rate. It boasts a staggering 46 Gbps rate, nearly five times faster than its predecessor, Wi-Fi 6, which had a maximum rate of 9.6 Gbps. This superior speed paves the way for seamless handling of data-intensive applications, such as:

• 4K and 8K video streaming: Experience crystal-clear video streaming without buffering or lag.
• Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): Immerse yourself in interactive VR and AR experiences with smooth, real-time graphics and responsive interactions.
• Cloud gaming: Play demanding video games without the need for high-end gaming PCs or consoles, thanks to the fast and reliable data transfer.
• Massive file transfers: Effortlessly transfer large files, such as high-resolution images, videos, or backups, in a fraction of the time.

Multi-Link Operation (MLO)

Wi-Fi 7 introduces Multi-Link Operation (MLO) technology, a game-changer in network flexibility and efficiency. While previous Wi-Fi generations might utilize only one frequency band at a time, even when supporting dual-band or tri-band operations, Wi-Fi 7 breaks this limitation. MLO enables devices to simultaneously transmit and receive data across the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz frequency bands. This simultaneous operation results in:

• Enhanced data transmission efficiency: MLO leverages multiple frequency bands for parallel data transfer, leading to significantly faster speeds and smoother performance.
• Increased network flexibility: Devices can dynamically switch between frequency bands to optimize performance based on signal strength and traffic congestion. This ensures a reliable and stable connection across various locations and environments.

Advanced Modulation and Channel Width

Wi-Fi 7 utilizes 4096-QAM modulation technology, surpassing Wi-Fi 6’s 1024-QAM in data transmission efficiency. This advanced modulation, combined with the increased channel width from 160 MHz in Wi-Fi 6 to 320 MHz in Wi-Fi 7, further enhances the data transmission capability of each channel. These improvements contribute to:

• Higher data density: More data can be transmitted over the same bandwidth, improving overall network efficiency.
• Improved signal quality: The wider channel width allows for more robust and reliable signal transmission, reducing interference and ensuring stable connectivity.

Wi-Fi 7: Shaping the Future of Wireless Connectivity

As the Internet of Things (IoT) expands and connects more devices, the demand for faster data rates and lower latency intensifies. The increased data transmission, optimized frequency band utilization, reduced latency, and enhanced network capacity offered by Wi-Fi 7 address these growing needs. It provides a robust foundation for future wireless communication applications, particularly in high-demand enterprise and industrial environments.

Wi-Fi 7 Penetration: A Look at Market Adoption

While Wi-Fi 7 is still in its early stages of adoption, its impact is already being felt across the technology landscape. Let’s take a look at the anticipated penetration rate of Wi-Fi 7 in mobile phone devices and network equipment.

Wi-Fi 7 in Mobile Devices

IDC’s “Global Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracking Report” projects a steady growth in smartphone shipments, with a projected 4.0% year-on-year increase in 2024, reaching 1.21 billion units. This growth is driven by the rebounding consumer demand, and the trend is expected to continue in the coming years.

Industry analysts anticipate a gradual adoption of Wi-Fi 7 in smartphones, with a penetration rate of 6% to 8% in 2024. However, as the applications supported by this technology expand, major smartphone manufacturers are expected to launch Wi-Fi 7-equipped devices in 2025. High-end flagship models from leading brands like iPhone, Samsung, Vivo, Xiaomi, Oppo, and others are expected to drive the penetration rate of Wi-Fi 7 to exceed 25% to 30% by 2025.

Wi-Fi 7 in Network Equipment

IDC projects that the penetration rate of Wi-Fi 7 network equipment, encompassing routers, access points, switches, firewalls, wireless controllers, and IoT devices, will be around 10% to 15% in 2024. These devices are essential for providing wireless network connectivity, extending network coverage, and connecting and managing various network devices.

With the increasing adoption of Wi-Fi 7 technology in smartphones, the penetration rate of Wi-Fi 7 network equipment is expected to soar. IDC forecasts that this rate will exceed 40% by 2025, signifying a widespread shift towards Wi-Fi 7-enabled devices in both residential and commercial settings.

Benefits and Practical Tips

The benefits of Wi-Fi 7 extend beyond faster speeds and enhanced network capacity. It empowers users to indulge in a richer and more immersive digital experience.

Here are some practical tips for maximizing your Wi-Fi 7 experience:

• Upgrade to Wi-Fi 7-compatible devices: Ensure your router and connected devices support Wi-Fi 7 for optimal performance.
• Leverage MLO technology: Enable MLO on your router and devices to utilize multiple frequency bands for faster data transfer.
• Connect to the 6 GHz band: This band offers reduced interference and greater bandwidth capacity, ideal for data-intensive applications.
• Optimize network settings: Customize your network settings to prioritize specific devices or applications for a smoother experience.
• Keep your firmware updated: Ensure your router and devices have the latest firmware updates for optimal compatibility and security.

As Wi-Fi 7 continues to gain traction, its impact on our digital lives will become increasingly evident. We can anticipate a future where seamless, high-speed wireless connectivity fuels innovation across industries and enhances our daily experiences. Stay tuned for exciting developments in the world of Wi-Fi 7 and its transformative potential.