Enhanced Reliability and Performance on the Horizon: Wi-Fi 8 Set to Revolutionize Connectivity with Wired Grade Features

Qualcomm claims that Wi-Fi 8 will introduce significant enhancements in performance and dependability, such as improved coordination among multiple access points and effortless roaming. Currently under development as part of the ‘Ultra High Reliability’ (UHR) initiative, this upcoming wireless standard is being created in partnership with various companies, including Qualcomm itself. While the final version of Wi-Fi 8 isn’t anticipated until 2028, Qualcomm has already disclosed advancements in wireless network reliability expected with this new standard.

Wi-Fi 8 Set to Enhance Network Reliability with Effortless Roaming and Reduced Latency

According to Qualcomm, referencing the IEEE scope document, Wi-Fi 8 is projected to provide enhancements including reduced latency at the 95th percentile, improved throughput in crowded areas, and enhanced roaming capabilities between access points. Additionally, Wi-Fi 8 aims to bolster peer-to-peer (P2P) interactions, increase power efficiency, and deliver reliability comparable to wired connections.

Predicted schedule for the forthcoming Wi-Fi standard
Photo Credit: Qualcomm

The current Wi-Fi 7 (IEEE802.11be) standard already boasts a range of enhancements over its predecessor Wi-Fi 6, offering quicker data transmission rates and features such as adaptable channel management. It was developed under the Extremely High Throughput (EHT) framework, aimed at improving performance for both indoor and outdoor connectivity.

Meanwhile, Qualcomm emphasizes that the UHR initiative is dedicated to enhancing wireless network reliability, while Wi-Fi 7 and Wi-Fi 6 have focused on refining performance and efficiency, respectively. The chipmaker also points out the emergence of new wireless devices poised to become commonplace in the coming years, such as augmented reality (AR) glasses and various wearables. Additionally, Qualcomm, Samsung, and Google are collaborating on a pair of AR glasses.

Five critical domains where Wi-Fi 8 is expected to enhance network reliability include seamless transitions between multiple access points, improved energy efficiency for access points and client devices, better coexistence with various wireless standards, enhanced edge performance, and coordination in densely populated areas.

The IEEE802.11bn standard remains under development and is anticipated to be finalized by March 2028. Nevertheless, both Qualcomm and MediaTek have highlighted the advantages of Wi-Fi 8 networks and their contributions towards the forthcoming wireless standard, which is anticipated to gain support from new devices by the decade’s end.