In a recent regulatory decision regarding the transmission of data, network service providers like Verizon and T-Mobile has been given the green signal for using public airwaves very soon. The move will lead to the provision of faster network speed to the customers. However, Wi-Fi transmissions might take a hit due to this new regulation.
According to Phys.org, there can be a possible interruption of data transmission in Wi-Fi hotspots. This will surely concern people who depend on the Wi-Fi hotspots. It is estimated that almost 80 percent of the total data transmitted on mobile devices is carried over Wi-Fi. The possible conflict between cellular signals and Wi-Fi might also affect the wireless protocol named LTE-U. LTE is the standard networking technology used by cellular companies for transmission of data between their own wireless networks and users' Smartphone.
Wireless service providers like AT&T, Verizon and others possess exclusive rights on a considerable amount of the transmission airwaves. Anyone can access the unlicensed parts of the spectrum via compatible devices. Wi-Fi uses these airwaves for the transmission of signals. The LTE-U protocol has been developed to let the cellular companies tap in this free spectrum space, allowing them to send signals over the same 5GHz spectrum reportedly used by Wi-Fi access points, increasing the download capability to a great extent for the Smartphone users.
According to Wired, this decision has infuriated quite a few companies, including Google, who use the Wi-Fi spectrum for transmitting wireless internet services. They are concerned about LTE-U not following a "listen before talk" model while operating, which prompts the device to check if others are broadcasting before broadcasting itself. This might cause a lot of disruption in the wireless transmission of the parties using the Wi-Fi spectrum.
However, Qualcomm, the designer of the LTE-U technology, has said that it will do no harm to the co-existing Wi-Fi networks in the free spectrum. It also says that once the technology is up for grabs, it will benefit the companies who are currently objecting to its existence.
As per experts, a lot of testing has to be done regarding the merits and demerits of the new technology before its implementation. It should lead to the improvement of wireless experience for all the users.
