The US Federal Communications Commission recently announced the approval for very low-power devices to access the 6GHz bandwidth.
What that means is that devices like virtual reality headsets and wearable tech will be able to utilize the must faster Wi-Fi protocol at short distances.
The FCC first approved the use of 6GHz for public consumption several years ago which led to Wi-Fi routers for laptops and phones that were able to handle more devices without drop-off.
The 6GHz bandwidth is akin to opening the vast stretches of land in the west for settlement.
It provides a lot more room for more devices that rely on Wi-Fi connectivity, but until now, VR headsets and similar devices were not approved to utilize the new bandwidth.
This is especially important for companies who have bet heavily on VR headsets like Meta, Apple, and Sony, all of whom have been pressing the FCC for this decision.
VR headsets are particularly in need of faster Wi-Fi connectivity with less latency to avoid the dizziness that users can experience with slower connections.
The 6GHz debate has not been without controversy, as companies such as ATT have fought the expansion for fears that devices on this bandwidth would interfere with microwave traffic that serves as the backbone of its network.
The FAA has also expressed concern that 6GHz devices could interfere with airplane traffic.
This is why the FCC’s announcement is focused on very low-power devices and indoor usage only.
The devices that will support this new type of use will be branded as Wi-Fi 6E.
The FCC is also looking at the next swath of real estate when it considers an expansion into 7GHz in 2024.
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