The Wi-Fi Alliance has just announced a new overhaul of its wireless network standard. Wi-Fi 6 Release 2 promises better performance for video conferencing, game streaming and IoT applications. The organization highlighted improvements in uplink speeds and better power management for compatible devices.
- Wi-Fi 6 Revision 2 is an update of the current wireless network standard.
- The new version does not add any new frequencies or improve the downlink speed.
- The most important features are the uplink speeds and the power management.
Just like the first version of Wi-Fi 6, the second revision tries to improve its use in areas with many devices at the same time. One of the innovations is the use of multi-user MIMO (multiple input, multiple output) for the uplink connection – from the device to the access point, router or modem.
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The main benefits are faster data transfers and lower latency, which the Wi-Fi Alliance (WFA) describes in response to the increasing demand for file uploads, video conferencing, cloud game streaming and more devices connected 24/7. The organization estimates two billion Wi-Fi 6 devices will hit the market this year.
Better energy efficiency
For devices that are constantly connected to the Internet, the new version also brings improvements in energy management. Including new functions for energy-saving modes that were specially developed for use in companies and for the IoT sector. In addition, the alliance promises more efficient energy use for battery-operated devices.
The new Wi-Fi 6 Release 2, which is strictly called Wi-Fi CERTIFIED 6 Release 2 according to the Wi-Fi Alliance, works on the same frequencies currently in use: 2.4, 5 and 6 GHz. However, it does require certified devices and access points to use the new functions. The certification program is already available to interested parties, but the WFA has not announced when we will be able to purchase compatible devices.