As we kick off the new year, the Wireless Broadband Alliance (WBA) has outlined key trends shaping the future of Wi-Fi in its Annual Industry Report. Tiago Rodrigues, WBA President and CEO, emphasizes the industry’s role in delivering secure and high-quality connectivity in homes, businesses, and cities. These predictions, originally reported by Jean-Pierre Joosting for eeNews Europe, highlight the transformative potential of Wi-Fi tech in the coming years.

1. Wi-Fi 7 Adoption

Wi-Fi 7 is poised to revolutionize connectivity, particularly in high-density environments like smart cities and airports. Early adoption will be driven by technology enthusiasts — e.g., Elektor community members — and enterprises, enabling faster speeds, reduced latency, and enhanced IoT capabilities. Smart home users will also benefit from upgraded routers to support 8K streaming, advanced IoT systems, and more.

2. 6 GHz Expansion and AFC Systems

The expansion of the 6-GHz spectrum will continue, facilitated by Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC) systems. Regions including the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Asia are rolling out AFC frameworks, which enable standard-power Wi-Fi operations while protecting existing services. This development will enable reliable Wi-Fi performance in public venues and enterprise networks.

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3. AI-Driven Network Optimization

Artificial intelligence (AI) will play a critical role in optimizing Wi-Fi networks. AI-powered routers and cloud platforms can analyze traffic patterns, allocate bandwidth, and manage devices to ensure high performance in smart homes and IoT-heavy environments.

4. Wi-Fi and 5G Convergence

Wi-Fi and 5G will converge to deliver uninterrupted connectivity by dynamically switching between networks. Technologies like OpenRoaming and Passpoint will likely enhance user experience in smart cities, while network slicing and edge computing will optimize real-time applications like AR/VR and autonomous vehicles.

5. OpenRoaming Expansion

OpenRoaming adoption will speed up and thus simplify public Wi-Fi access and expand into IoT apps. This innovation supports seamless connectivity across urban deployments, retail chains, and remote areas, while creating new opportunities for mobile operators.

6. TIP OpenWiFi

TIP OpenWiFi will likely gain momentum, particularly in cost-sensitive markets and among managed service providers. OpenLAN switching and other features will drive adoption, though scalability and competition from established vendors remain challenges.

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7. Enhanced IoT Connectivity

Elektor community members are interested in Wi-Fi 6/7 and Wi-Fi HaLow, which will transform IoT connectivity, offering extended range and improved battery efficiency. These advancements should drive innovation in areas like manufacturing and smart cities.

8. API-First Approach

The industry’s shift to an API-first strategy ensures robust digital architectures that support integration and scalability. APIs are becoming essential for flexible Wi-Fi solutions.

9. Public Wi-Fi Expansion

Municipalities will expand public Wi-Fi networks to support smart city initiatives. The goal is reliable connectivity for applications like public safety and traffic management. OpenRoaming could play a crucial role in these expansions.

10. Focus on Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a priority for engineers and end useers alike, particularly for IoT devices. Technologies like Target Wake Time (TWT) will reduce power consumption, extending the battery life of connected devices.

The WBA’s predictions underscore the critical role of wireless technology in shaping a connected future. As Rodrigues points out, collaboration and innovation within the Wi-Fi ecosystem are key to meeting the growing demands of our digital world. For the full report, visit the WBA’s official website.

Editor's Note: This post is based on Jean-Pierre Joosting’s reporting for eeNews Europe, which is an Elektor International Media publication.