The new Intel WiMAX 2 standard should provide average speeds over 100Mbps, WiMAX Forum’s marketing lead Declan Byrne said this weekend to Computerworld. This advancement in technology would definitely help mobile communication and is expected to be ratified in November, with potential commercial use as soon as 2012.
Revolutionizing Mobile Communication
The promise of 100Mbps speeds would significantly outpace most current landline access, which typically ranges from 25Mbps to 50Mbps for many users. This leap in speed would permit not only streaming HD 1080p video but also enable other very high-bandwidth applications such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences, cloud gaming, and large file transfers. The implications for both personal and professional use are vast, potentially transforming how we interact with digital content on the go.
WiMAX is also much lower latency than 3G, making it more practical for time-sensitive functions such as video chat, online gaming, and real-time data analytics. Lower latency means that data packets travel faster between the source and destination, reducing the delay that users experience. This is crucial for applications that require immediate feedback, such as remote surgery, autonomous driving, and live broadcasting.
Comparing WiMAX 2 to Competing Technologies
The competing 4G LTE standard also offers lower latency and improved speeds, but in its current form, it peaks at about 12Mbps. This limitation practically removes it from the competition before it even gets started, especially when compared to the promised 100Mbps of WiMAX 2. However, it’s worth noting that 4G LTE has been widely adopted and has a more extensive infrastructure in place, which could pose a challenge for WiMAX 2 in terms of market penetration.
Moreover, the upcoming 5G technology, which is still in the early stages of deployment, promises even higher speeds and lower latency than both WiMAX 2 and 4G LTE. 5G aims to offer speeds up to 10Gbps and latency as low as 1 millisecond. While WiMAX 2 is a significant improvement over current technologies, it will need to continue evolving to stay competitive in the face of 5G advancements.
Let’s hope the WiMAX 2 100Mbps is the actual speed everyone would receive and not just a privileged few standing in the correct locations. Network performance can often vary based on numerous factors, including user density, physical obstructions, and distance from the signal source. Therefore, achieving consistent 100Mbps speeds for all users will be a critical challenge for service providers.
The introduction of Intel’s WiMAX 2 standard marks a significant milestone in mobile communication technology. With its promise of 100Mbps speeds and lower latency, it has the potential to revolutionize how we use mobile devices and access digital content. However, it will face stiff competition from existing 4G LTE networks and the emerging 5G technology. The success of WiMAX 2 will depend on its ability to deliver on its promises and achieve widespread adoption.
Via Electronista
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