Description
Wi-Fi 6, also known as 802.11ax, represents the sixth generation of Wi-Fi standards, offering significant improvements over the predecessor, Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac). Released in 2019, Wi-Fi 6 is designed to operate in high-density environments and also improve performance and efficiency. Wi-Fi 6 introduces advanced technologies such as Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA), 1024-QAM modulation, Target Wake Time (TWT), and improved Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) support.
Beamforming is a technique used in Wi-Fi networks to focus wireless signals directly toward connected devices rather than broadcasting signals in all directions. This focused signal improves both the strength and efficiency of the connection, reducing interference and delivering a faster, more reliable Wi-Fi experience. Beamforming is particularly helpful in dense environments where multiple devices compete for bandwidth, as it allows the router to direct its signal more precisely, enhancing coverage and reducing wasted energy.
This report contains information on the patent landscape relating to beamforming. The future of beamforming and the patents connected to the technology are largely correlated to the evolution of the Wi-Fi service. Beamforming efficacy has improved during the Wi-Fi 6 generation, and there is an interdependent relationship insofar as Wi-Fi 6 has increased the number of MU-MIMO users, and this was also made possible by the use of beamforming.
Frequently asked questions
What does this report show about beamforming patents in Wi-Fi 6?
The report gives insights into the landscape of beamforming related patents and how they relate to Wi-Fi 6. A search of patent databases identified 363 patents, of which 135 were deemed directly relevant to Wi-Fi 6. Filing activity peaked in 2016, reflecting a surge of innovation in beamforming ahead of the standardisation of Wi-Fi 6. The report also considers how the field may develop as the standard moves toward Wi-Fi 7.
What is beamforming and why does it matter in Wi-Fi 6?
Beamforming focuses wireless signals directly toward connected devices instead of broadcasting in every direction. The focused signal improves the strength and efficiency of the connection, reduces interference and delivers a faster, more reliable experience. Wi-Fi 6, also known as 802.11ax, was released in 2019 and is designed for high density environments. It introduces OFDMA, 1024-QAM modulation, Target Wake Time and improved MIMO support, which raises the value of good beamforming.
Who is this report for?
The report suits chipset vendors, access point and network equipment makers, and licensing teams that need a view of the rights around beamforming in Wi-Fi 6. It supports decisions on where to file, which patents to watch and how a portfolio compares with the wider field. Rising adoption of the Internet of Things has been a main driver of Wi-Fi market growth, which keeps this position commercially relevant.
How can the report be requested?
Requests go through the contact page on the website, where an enquiry reaches the research team. The team will confirm what the study contains and how it is delivered. Scope can be adjusted, so the analysis can be extended to other Wi-Fi 6 features, narrowed to the patents of specific holders, or carried forward to follow beamforming as the standard evolves toward Wi-Fi 7.
