Light-Speed Internet: Could Li-Fi Be the Future?

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A new and unique technology is around the corner, with the potential to change the way we connect to the internet. It offers different advantages than traditional Wi-Fi, though it is still too early to say what this means for broadband in our homes. So, what is this new technology, and how does it work?

What is Li-Fi?

Light Fidelity, also known as Li-Fi, uses the power of light to transmit data. Unlike Wi-Fi, which uses radio waves to create a wireless connection, Li-Fi relies on light to transmit data. Through this process, Li-Fi promises speeds that are 100 times faster than Wi-Fi.

Research for Li-Fi has been around since the early 2000s. Alongside his team, German physicist Harald Haas founded this technology by discovering that light can be used for two-way data transmission. It wasn't long before French company Oldecomm, one of the global leaders in this technology, began conducting its experiments on Li-Fi in 2008. In July, Europe launched Ariane 6 into space, carrying out four experiments, one geared toward testing Li-Fi technology.

How does Li-Fi work?

Li-Fi functions as a Visible Light Communications system; at its core, data is transferred from LED light bulbs. These bulbs carry pulses of light that produce information similar to Morse code. No, this process can't be seen by the naked eye. The game-changers in this scenario are the compatible devices that can synthesize this information rapidly.

What does this mean for the internet?

Wi-Fi, also known as wireless fidelity, first emerged in 1996. In the past few years, the development of technologies like Wi-Fi 6 and 6E and the introduction of Wi-Fi 7 early this year have transformed how we stay connected.

With Li-Fi, data is transferred at an accelerated rate compared to Wi-Fi, resulting in higher speeds. Speeds aren't the only important factor in a wireless connection.

The LiFi Group, a pioneer in commercializing Li-Fi technology and its products in the digital space, highlighted other notable benefits, like increased security.

"Security is another key advantage of Li-Fi because the signals are confined to the area illuminated by the light source and cannot penetrate walls. The risk of unauthorized access is greatly reduced," a spokesperson from The LiFi Group tells CNET.

Back to the topic of speeds, Li-Fi speeds could reach up to 224,000 megabits per second (in theory) and could be particularly advantageous for smart cities, virtual reality, 4K streaming and even online gaming, where lower latency is crucial. Additionally, because Li-Fi does not rely on radio frequencies like Wi-Fi, your connection will be free of electromagnetic interference. Li-Fi might also be a safer option for your home since it produces less radiation.

It's worth noting that this technology is still in its infancy, so we won't see its true impact until it's fully implemented in the real world.

I digress, while this technology isn't perfect yet, there are some key things you should know:

Pros

• Speed: More data is carried out faster through light sources than with radio waves used by Wi-Fi.
• Efficiency: Li-Fi is more energy-efficient as it harnesses the power of LED light bulbs.
• Security: Li-Fi technology reduces the risk of your data being intercepted by outside threats.
• Availability: Light sources are everywhere, increasing your chances of connecting to the internet.

Cons

• Limited range: Your connection will be confined to closed spaces since this technology relies on light sources. Large establishments and businesses might have a harder time utilizing this technology.
• Limited compatibility: This is a newer technology which means that fewer devices are equipped to decode its data.
• Doesn’t solve slow internet speeds from ISPs: If you are on your provider's slowest plan or are experiencing throttled speeds, Li-Fi won't solve these issues.

So, where can I find Li-Fi?

At present, Li-Fi is still in its research phase in the US and other parts of the world. It might take some time before we see how Li-Fi will impact the internet. Li-Fi is projected to be rolled out in the mainstream market within the next couple of years. Oldecomm is predicting that Li-Fi will be available anytime between 2024 and 2029. Implementing this technology will solely depend on company investments.

On the bright side, we might not be that far away as we're seeing this technology across different industries. The LiFi Group describes this technology to be crucial for sectors like defense and government, which is optimal for transferring data securely. Other industries, like aviation, are also making use of this technology, as seen with Spectrum Networks LLC, which is based in Fife, Washington.

Moreover, there is an increased interest among US companies that are funding research to develop this technology. VLNComm, based in Charlottesville, Virginia, is a leader in VLC technology and pivotal in developing Li-Fi. In addition, the company Signify, known for its energy-efficient lighting products, is also a key player in VLC technology. This company is headquartered in the Netherlands, but its North American corporation is nestled in Bridgewater, New Jersey. Both companies are doing work that will lay down the foundation of Li-Fi technology.

What's next for Li-Fi?

'We've been in discussions with several leading companies, not only within the Li-Fi and wireless communication sectors but also across industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, telecommunications, logistics and more," says the LiFi Group spokesman. "The growing demand for innovative connectivity solutions, especially in environments where traditional wireless technologies face limitations, will likely drive more companies to explore and invest in Li-Fi in the near future."

What's the bottom line on Li-Fi?

Li-Fi technology seems like a great alternative to Wi-Fi and, in theory, might benefit many industries. It's still too early to say that this technology will replace Wi-Fi as a whole. It might take some time before we actually see tangible evidence of its impact on wireless connectivity. Li-Fi is promising, as we see increased interest among companies funding research to develop the standard. Until then, we'll keep you up-to-date on new developments with this technology.