The Internet of Things gets its own Wi-Fi

Just in time for CES 2016, the Wi-Fi Alliance has approved a new Wi-Fi standard called the Wi-Fi HaLow that is aimed at powering the next generation of smart devices. The Wi-Fi Alliance says it is ideal for use in connected cars, smart homes and a number of different industries, but there will be some of a wait before the technology is available – it’s not due for certification until 2018. Like all Wi-Fi devices, Wi-Fi HaLow devices will support IP-based connectivity to natively connect to the cloud, which will become increasingly important in reaching the full potential of the Internet of Things (IoT).

The new standard, known as Wi-Fi HaLow, has longer range than Bluetooth, takes much less power than Wi-Fi and gets through walls and other interfering objects just as well as regular Wi-Fi.

Wi-Fi HaLow is the latest specification from the Wi-Fi Alliance looking to expand the range of Wi-Fi’s connectivity options.

The technology extends Wi-Fi into the 900 MHz band, enabling the low power connectivity necessary for applications including sensors and wearables.

HaLow is designed for the Internet of Things, created to connect multiple devices wirelessly, over extended distances and using lower power. Many devices will be tri-band, with access points in the home having 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz and 900 MHz functionality, providing connectivity throughout a property, according to Kevin Robinson, vice president of marketing at the Wi-Fi Alliance.

Wi-Fi HaLow, operating on a lower frequency, boasts better range and penetration than even normal Wi-Fi, but at the cost of data throughput. So why wouldn’t it connect your smart home gadgets, too? The Wi-Fi HaLow will be able to adapt to existing Wi-Fi protocols which means you do not have to spend extra money on additional network equipment. The group is a coalition of companies that works to establish Wi-Fi standards. Wi-Fi Alliance has certified more than 25,000 products, delivering the best user experience and encouraging the expanded use of Wi-Fi products and services in new and established markets. It should be stressed, however, that most IoT devices won’t need more than HaLow can supply.