Wireless Innovations Drive New Capabilities and AI Experiences

By Venkat Kodavati

High-performance, scalable, low-power embedded processing is crucial for Edge AI as it brings computational power directly to the data source. Doing so allows appropriately powered Edge AI systems to run optimized models that can efficiently analyze data locally in real time to reduce latency, ensure privacy, lower power consumption, and enable new user experiences that enhance usefulness, enjoyment, and safety.

Even though localized compute in Edge AI devices reduces the need for constant data transmission to the cloud, that is just one piece of the puzzle. Connectivity is a critical and growing requirement as AI moves closer to the end user. Devices must still get updates from the cloud and possibly send back metadata, and they must also network with other devices at the IoT Edge, preferably without the need for cable routing.

Wireless connectivity, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Thread, and Matter, is thus a cornerstone technology for the Edge AI revolution. However, for a positive, trusted, end-user experience, the wireless connection must be robust, secure, high-performance, and seamless.

What is driving wireless forward

The most pressing demand for product developers when it comes to connectivity is boosting throughput rates. That is fundamental to the progress being made with Wi-Fi 7 and Wi-Fi 8, with speeds going from single-digit gigabits to 50 gigabits per second (Gbps).

A wireless connection’s ability to maintain that high throughput over a considerable range (rate over range) is also essential, as is its ability to operate in challenging conditions, such as dense urban environments or scenarios requiring many connections. Multi-link operation (MLO), described below, also helps extend the range and connection reliability.

And with most Edge devices, latency is an issue, especially as we move into new types of use cases—for example, rapid transport of video or other data traffic. Safety-critical applications like video security cameras have a low tolerance for lag or dropped connections.

One approach to these challenges is the use of multi-link operation where two bands can be used to split the traffic on both depending on the availability of the bands. Combining different Wi-Fi bands, like 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz, creates a more robust, higher-capacity connection and reduces latencies. For example, a device could transmit data over the 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands simultaneously, increasing the available bandwidth and reducing the chance of congestion or interference. This is particularly beneficial in environments with high device density or demanding applications, such as high-definition video streaming or gaming.

Another notable shift in the functionality of wireless devices that requires better performance is the move toward two-way communication. Traditionally, simple sensors and devices communicated only in one direction. Today, however, there is a growing demand for devices to support bidirectional communication, allowing for updates and interactive functionality. This trend is evident in applications ranging from home security systems to real-time video sharing, where the ability to capture, process, and upload data swiftly is crucial.

AI Enhancing Wireless Performance

Integrating AI into wireless technology is a game-changer, and it is being leveraged to enhance the functionality of wireless systems. For instance, AI algorithms can dynamically predict network demands and adjust channel selections to optimize performance. This predictive capability is crucial in environments where data rates fluctuate, such as concerts or crowded events. By anticipating the need for higher data throughput, AI can improve channel efficiency and reduce latency.

By understanding the environment, such as the number of people present, the level of electromagnetic interference, and the physical structure of a space, wireless systems can adapt their operations to maintain optimal performance. For example, AI-enhanced wireless systems can measure signal quality and adjust parameters accordingly to ensure reliable connectivity, even in challenging conditions.

This contextual awareness unlocks new capabilities and user experiences. AI can analyze the signatures of wireless signals to infer actions or detect the presence of individuals, such as in child presence detection systems in vehicles. This synergy between wireless technology and AI enhances edge devices' capabilities and improves overall system performance.

The Future of Wireless Standards

There are significant advancements in wireless standards that are shaping the future. Wi-Fi 7 and the upcoming Wi-Fi 8 are set to revolutionize connectivity with higher speeds and reduced latency. Wi-Fi 7, specifically, is just recently emerging for end markets and is set to increase data rates significantly by supporting wider channel bandwidths of up to 320 MHz and advanced modulation techniques, potentially reaching speeds of up to 30 Gbps.

Wi-Fi 8 will build on these advancements, offering extended range, intelligent channel access using secondary channel access, and higher efficiency through improved coexistence and enhanced multi-access point (AP) coordination.

Bluetooth is also evolving, with new standards such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), while Bluetooth 6.0 and 7.0 extend capabilities into higher frequency bands, such as 5 GHz. This expansion promises to improve user experience by enhancing data rates through High Data Throughput (HDT), increased range, and newer applications based on proximity-based functionalities, such as smart device pairing and location-based actions.

Zigbee is also evolving to meet the expanding needs of IoT applications with enhanced functionality and interoperability. Traditionally used for low-power, low-data-rate communication in smart home and industrial settings, Zigbee is now incorporating improvements to broaden its scope and efficiency. Recent advancements include support for more extensive networks with increased device capacity and enhanced reliability. The standard is also adopting more robust security features to address growing concerns about data privacy and integrity.

Matter promises to harmonize all these standards. With Matter, the specific underlying protocol is not as important as long as it’s Matter compliant; then, devices can interoperate cross-protocol. Without it, it becomes much more cumbersome for users to integrate heterogeneous systems. Eventually, using Matter, devices will connect seamlessly, and users will be free from concerns about the underlying protocol.

Synaptics is at the forefront of integrating diverse wireless technologies into cohesive solutions. By developing multi-protocol combo devices that support Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Thread, and Zigbee, Synaptics aims to streamline connectivity and enhance interoperability across different standards. In addition, our ability to combine support for multiple protocols in a single chip solution saves cost and space in Edge AI systems.