Wi-Fi 6 testing completes, global deployment to begin in 2021

The Wireless Broadband Alliance (WBA) has announced that Wi-Fi 6 application testing in different markets has concluded and can now be promoted globally.

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The new Wi-Fi 6 protocol, which uses wider channels at 160 MHz and has a maximum capacity of 9.6 Gbps (compared to 3.5 Gbps for Wi-Fi 5), is already available in many devices, although companies and manufacturers are currently pushing for more aggressive deployment. The new technology will provide better reliability, lower latency and better network efficiency, which is especially useful in places with multiple connected endpoints.

WBA said: "Tests covering a range of different verticals and deployment scenarios demonstrated the key capabilities of Wi-Fi 6 in live networks, preparing operators for global Wi-Fi deployment. This also lays the foundation for the deployment of Wi-Fi 6 in enterprises, homes, schools, transportation hubs, hotels and the Internet of Things (IoT)."

With help from companies like Broadcom, Cisco, iBwave, and Intel, the tests covered every vertical where Wi-Fi 6 could be implemented, including industrial manufacturing. High-density shopping malls are another target for the technology, along with schools, single- and multi-family homes, and large transportation hubs like airports.

“These successful deployments demonstrate the strength of Wi-Fi 6 technology, enabling higher throughput, lower latency, enhanced reliability, greater network efficiency and a better user experience,” said Tiago Rodrigues, CEO of the WBA. “Ultimately, they prove that Wi-Fi 6 is ready for operator deployment, and the WBA continues to develop and expand new tests to support Wi-Fi 6’s expansion into new areas in different regions around the world.”

The first-time adoption rate is expected to reach 65% by the end of 2021. WBA's members include numerous operators and technology companies such as BSNL, Orange, Facebook, Google, HPE Aruba, Huawei, Nokia, Qualcomm, Shaw, Swisscom, Softbank, Rogers, Telstra, Telus and T-Mobile US.