OFDMA Wi-Fi 6 Landscape Report
OFDMA is an OFDM-based multiple access scheme where different subsets of subcarriers are allocated to different users, enabling simultaneous data transmission to or from multiple users. This allocation can change from one PPDU to the next, providing dynamic flexibility based on traffic demands. A key enhancement introduced in Wi-Fi 6, OFDMA improves efficiency, reduces latency, and optimizes spectrum utilization, especially in high-density environments.
This report provides a detailed analysis of the patent landscape for OFDMA technology. To identify relevant patents, comprehensive searches were conducted across multiple patent databases using a combination of search strings, IPC/CPC classifications, and OFDMA specific keywords. Since the Wi-Fi 6 standard was launched in 2021, the search focused exclusively on patents with a priority date of February 2021.
Wi-Fi 6 introduces significant innovations in wireless networking, with OFDMA standing out as a transformative feature. OFDMA subdivides channels into smaller sub-channels, allowing multiple devices to transmit and receive data concurrently. This efficient resource allocation minimizes delays and boosts overall network performance, making it especially beneficial in high-density environments.
This report presents a detailed analysis of the OFDMA patent landscape for Wi-Fi 6. Using a rigorous methodology, more than 1,000 unique OFDMA-related patent families were identified, with approximately 65% refined as Wi-Fi 6-specific after excluding inactive, abandoned, expired or unrelated patents.
Filing trends reflect peak innovation around 2015-2016, suggesting that most foundational advancements were made early in the development of the Wi-Fi 6 standard, followed by a stabilization period.
The reassignment analysis of essential Wi-Fi 6 OFDMA patents shows minimal ownership transitions, indicating that major players like LG, Qualcomm, Apple, and Panasonic retain control over their patents, highlighting their strategic value. Notable transfers include Intel, Huawei, Marvell, and Newracom, with some patents reassigned to companies such as AX Wireless, NXP, Futurewei Tech, and Avago, reflecting industry dynamics and strategic realignments.
Overall, this report highlights the extensive innovation and competitive landscape surrounding OFDMA technology, demonstrating its pivotal role in advancing Wi-Fi 6 performance and reliability for modern wireless applications.
To identify patents specifically related to Wi-Fi 6 and OFDMA, a detailed review of the initial set of patent families was conducted. This involved examining the claims, abstracts, and full descriptions within the patent documents to determine their relevance. Only patents with a clear connection to Wi-Fi 6 and OFDMA were retained for further analysis.
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