A new and unique technology is on the horizon that has the potential to change the way we connect to the Internet. This technology offers different benefits over traditional Wi-Fi, but it remains to be seen how it will impact broadband Internet in the home. So what is this new technology and how does it work?
What is Li-Fi?
Light Fidelity (also known as Li-Fi) harnesses the power of light to transmit data. Unlike Wi-Fi, which uses radio waves to establish a wireless connection, Li-Fi uses light to transmit data. This process gives Li-Fi speeds up to 100 times faster than Wi-Fi.
Research into Li-Fi has been going on since the early 2000s. German physicist Harald Haas and his team discovered that light could be used for two-way data transmission and established the technology. It wasn't long before one of the world leaders in this technology, the French company Oldecomm, began experimenting with Li-Fi in 2008. Last month, Europe launched Ariane 6 into space to carry out four experiments, one of which was aimed at testing Li-Fi technology.
How does Li-Fi work?
Li-Fi Group/Screenshot: CNET
Li-Fi works as a visible light communication system. At its core, data is transferred from LED light bulbs. These light bulbs carry light pulses that generate information similar to Morse code. Of course, this process is invisible to the naked eye. But what's revolutionary in this scenario are the compatible devices that can rapidly synthesize this information.
What does this mean for the Internet?
Wi-Fi, also known as Wireless Fidelity, first appeared in 1996. Over the past few years, the development of technologies like Wi-Fi 6 and 6E, and the introduction of Wi-Fi 7 earlier this year, have significantly changed the way we connect.
Li-Fi offers faster speeds compared to Wi-Fi as it transfers data faster, but speed is not the only important factor when it comes to wireless connectivity.
LiFi Group, a pioneer in commercializing Li-Fi technology and its products in the digital sphere, highlighted other notable benefits, such as enhanced security.
“Another key advantage of Li-Fi is its security, as the signal is limited to the area illuminated by the light source and cannot penetrate walls, greatly reducing the risk of unauthorized access,” a LiFi Group spokesperson told CNET.
Returning to the topic of speed, Li-Fi speeds could theoretically reach up to 224,000 megabits per second, making it especially advantageous for smart cities, virtual reality, 4K streaming, and even online gaming, where low latency is important. Additionally, Li-Fi doesn't rely on radio frequencies like Wi-Fi, so the connection is immune to electromagnetic interference. Li-Fi also produces less radiation, which may make it a safer option for homes.
It's worth keeping in mind that this technology is still in its early stages, so its true impact won't be seen until it's fully implemented in the digital world.
But I digress, while the technology isn't perfect yet, there are some important things to know:
Strong Points
Speed: More data is transferred faster using light sources than the radio waves used by Wi-Fi. Efficiency: Li-Fi is energy efficient as it uses power from LED light bulbs. Security: Li-Fi technology reduces the risk of data being intercepted by external threats. Availability: Light sources are ubiquitous, increasing the likelihood of internet connectivity.
Cons
Limited range: The technology relies on a light source, so connectivity is limited to enclosed spaces. Larger facilities and businesses may have difficulty using this technology. Limited compatibility: This is a relatively new technology, so fewer devices are able to decode the data. Doesn't solve slow internet speeds caused by your ISP: If you're on the slowest plan from your provider or are experiencing speed throttling, Li-Fi won't solve these issues.
So where can you find Li-Fi?
Currently, Li-Fi is still in the research phase in the United States and other parts of the world. It may be some time before we know how Li-Fi will impact the Internet. Li-Fi is expected to be deployed in the mainstream market within the next few years. Oldecomm predicts that Li-Fi will be available between 2024 and 2029. However, the implementation of this technology will depend entirely on corporate investment.
On the bright side, that may not be too far off as the technology is being adopted across a variety of industries. LiFi Group says the technology is crucial for sectors like defense and government, where it's best suited to securely transferring data. Other industries, like aviation, are also leveraging the technology, as seen with Fife, Wash.-based Spectrum Networks LLC.
Additionally, interest is growing among U.S. companies that are funding research and development into the technology. VLNComm, based in Charlottesville, Virginia, is a leader in VLC technology and is playing a key role in the development of Li-Fi. Another major player in VLC technology is Signify, known for its energy-efficient lighting products. The company is headquartered in the Netherlands, but its North American operations are in Bridgewater, New Jersey. Both companies are working to lay the foundations for Li-Fi technology.
What does the future hold for Li-Fi?
“We have been in discussions with many leading companies across the Li-Fi and wireless communications sectors, as well as industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, communications and logistics,” a LiFi Group spokesperson said. “The growing demand for innovative connectivity solutions, especially in environments where traditional wireless technologies are facing their limitations, will likely see more companies considering and investing in Li-Fi in the near future.”
What's the bottom line about Li-Fi?
Li-Fi technology seems like a great alternative to Wi-Fi and in theory could benefit many industries. However, it is still too early to say that this technology will replace Wi-Fi entirely. It may be a while before we see concrete evidence of its impact on wireless connectivity in the wild. But Li-Fi looks promising, as interest in it is growing among companies that are funding research to develop this standard. Until then, we will keep you updated on the latest developments in this technology.
