Anyone with dismal download speeds might want to watch out for a big upgrade that will be launching soon. US firm Qualcomm has just announced its latest Wi-Fi 8 internet technology, which it promises will be twice as good as current connectivity. Right now, Wi-Fi 7 leads the way with some UK internet service providers already offering this technology to customers. Wi-Fi 7 is fully capable of delivering faster downloads along with a more reliable connection, but things will soon get even better.

Qualcomm says its new FastConnect 8800 Connectivity System will be the world’s first Wi-Fi 8 mobile solution with a 4×4 radio configuration. This will enable it to offer download speeds beyond 10Gbps. At that rapid rate, which is around 100 times faster than the UK average, homes would be able to download a movie in the blink of an eye. As a quick guide, a Hollywood blockbuster currently takes around seven minutes to arrive on devices, switch to 10Gbps speeds and that time drops to just two seconds.

Along with being faster, this platform also looks set to offer improved range, which basically means more rooms will get that quicker signal. Better stability is another bonus and will be especially useful for homes with endless gadgets connected to the web.

Of course, there’s still plenty of work to do before Wi-Fi 8 becomes a reality. Devices such as laptops, phones and TVs will all need to be upgraded to access this system. Internet providers will also need to get on board to bring this platform to customers. That said, things do move fast, and it’s thought we could start to see some Wi-Fi 8-ready products arrive later this year.

“Today’s network traffic profile is fundamentally changing as AI-fueled demand requires a re-thinking of the core architecture. Qualcomm Technologies is redefining that architecture to enable AI everywhere,” said Gautam Sheoran, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Connectivity, Broadband and Networking, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.

“Next-gen networks and devices not only need to be AI-native, but they need a new breed of intelligent, high performance connectivity. Qualcomm Technologies’ Wi-Fi 8 generation of products is the whole package: faster speeds, higher reliability, longer range, and powerful AI.”

Just like all technology, once these flashing black boxes start to age, software can become outdated and vital upgrades no longer available. When routers become obsolete and updates stop, they are more at risk of cyber attacks and worrying malware.

“Older routers with outdated firmware can be risky because they may not receive the latest updates which can leave Wi-Fi open to hackers who will then be able to access personal and sensitive information,” the team at TelephoneSystems.Cloud confirmed.

If you don’t think your router has been changed in a while, now could be a good time to check with your provider to see if any updates are available.