Wi-Fi 8 was demonstrated with the first prototype connection

It feels like a proposition Wi-Fi 7 Barely out of the gate, but TP-Link is already making progress toward the next generation of connectivity. Company Announced on Monday It has successfully tested an early prototype of Wi-Fi 8 devices, marking a “critical milestone” in its development.

While the testing is light on details, TP-Link says it has validated its Wi-Fi 8 (802.11bn) beacon and data transfer capabilities, proving its viability for future consumer products. The prototype devices were developed through a “joint industry partnership,” according to TP-Link, and the company expects consumer devices to be available before the standard is ratified, which the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) expects. It will be completed by 2028.

In a blog post published in July explaining the new standard, Qualcomm explains Wi-Fi 8 aims to keep devices online and stable, rather than chasing faster bandwidth speeds. Like its predecessor, Wi-Fi 8 will use 2.4GHz, 5GHz and 6GHz bands with a maximum theoretical channel bandwidth of 320MHz and a data rate of up to 23Gbps, but it aims to improve real-world performance and connection reliability.

The goal is to provide better performance in low-signal environments, or under high network loads, where an increasing number of devices share the same connection. Wi-Fi 8 can theoretically manage more devices at once, and reduce lag when placed farther away from your router or moving around your home. This should provide users with a smoother gaming and streaming experience, and prevent freezes, drops, and “bot sound” during video calls.

“Wi-Fi 8 is key – going beyond peak speeds to prioritize reliable performance in demanding real-world conditions,” Qualcomm said. “It’s designed to bring Wi-Fi closer than ever to the reliability and responsiveness of wired infrastructure.”