WiFi is going to get a lot smarter with WiFi Aware

WiFi Aware is a new technology that allows multiple WiFi devices to communicate with other nearby devices without needing an internet connection. The devices will always be broadcasting small amounts of information which will allow applications on other devices to pick up what is going on. For example a store could be pushing out coupons to those around it before making a regular WiFi connection or having the lights turn on the second you come home from work when you connect to your home WiFi.

This is the first of many new technologies that push for smaller connections that are connected to the larger Internet of Things (IOT). With WiFi Aware a key principle is users don’t want to be drowned in information about everything around them. Instead users have full control over what they are alerted to as well as the data that they are sending out to other devices. WiFi Aware devices will understand all the other devices around them, but only connect to relevant ones.

Two major concerns are privacy and battery life. Edgar Figueroa the President of the WiFi Alliance, says WiFi Aware consumes much less energy than traditional WiFi and is very power efficient. Privacy wise the apps that use the service have opt in and opt out settings. Plus there is no internet connection using the service which gives a little more protection.

WiFi Aware products are not available yet, but Broadcom, Intel, Marvel and Realtek are already working on chips for future devices. It is expected that social networks could have applications with WiFi Aware out by the end of the year.

Source: Wi-Fi
Via: Androidauthority

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