IoT Insider Digital Magazine

IoT Insider Oct 2024

Wireless protocols are undoubtedly a pillar of IoT communications, as without them, devices aren’t able to transmit and receive data over networks. 

These protocols have continued to grow and expand, as new generations seek to solve the problems of previous generations or bring new capabilities with them. The rate at which wireless protocols are adopted by the industry is significant when attention is paid to it, as it generally provides a reflection of market conditions.  

5G was introduced in 2019, through the release 15 specification; followed by releases 16, 17 and now 18. 5G standalone (SA) networks are already being discussed, and what 6G will look like is on the horizon. 

Josh Mickolio, Technology Business Development Manager – IoT at DigiKey writes in his article on M2M technology adoption that the adoption rate of these technologies has been severely impacted by supply chains related to the pandemic and Mickolio predicts a “next-generation wireless boom on the horizon”.  

He picks apart the performance parameters and improvements of these technologies, covering 4G, 5G, Bluetooth 5.0 (prior to the release of Bluetooth 6.0, which officially launched in September 2024, prior to Mickolio’s article), and Wi-Fi 4 and Wi-Fi 5. 

Read more about these wireless protocols in this issue of IoT Insider!