First gigabit LiFi for next generation mobile devices to go on show this month 

Edinburgh’s pureLiFi will be demoing the first gigabit LiFi components in a commercial device at Mobile World Congress later this month.

“Gigabit LiFi is not only fast, it’s more reliable, virtually interference free and represents unique standards in wireless security, as light is inherently more secure than radio technology such as Wi-Fi or cellular,” the company said in a statement.

The new optical components will, for the first time, allow for mobile manufacturers to start designing LiFi into devices.

“The ecosystem is crying out for new spectrum and new wireless technology that will service the global appetite for more bandwidth and digital innovation,” said Alistair Banham, pureLiFi’s chief executive. “Device manufacturers need new technology to be sure they’re ready for 5G and differentiate between their competition.”

Banham added: “We’re already in discussions with mobile phone manufacturers, demonstrating how our optical LiFi components will enable innovation in their products and transform the user experience. We’ve led global adoption of LiFi into critical use cases such as government and industry and now we’re bringing the technology into every device and every light for everyone.”

As a wireless technology, LiFi holds the key to solving challenges faced by 5G, which is why both mobile device manufacturers and telecommunication providers alike have shown enthusiasm, said the company’s statement.

In 2018, O2 Telefonica announced its trial with pureLiFi as an answer to 5G indoor communications. An industry standard for light communications is set for release in 2021.

LiFi delivers 1000 times the bandwidth of traditional wireless, offering ultra-low latency solutions and can service more users per square metre than any other wireless technology on the market, said the company.

It added: “LiFi can transform everyday wireless communication. Bandwidth has quickly become a threatened commodity. Demand for wireless connectivity is growing exponentially due to the fast growth in smart living, massive IoT, autonomous vehicles, VR and AR.

“Now is the time for LiFi and pureLiFi will present the first consumer device powered by Gigabit LiFi at Mobile World Congress, marking a watershed moment not only for LiFi but 5G and beyond wireless.”