Wi-Fi 8 technology made an unexpected debut at CES 2026, with routers and chips promising enhanced stability rather than just speed upgrades. While many users haven't yet transitioned to Wi-Fi 7, Wi-Fi 8 offers the same high speeds and bandwidth with improved power efficiency, higher throughput, and better device communication. This advancement aims to reduce connection drops and enhance streaming and gaming experiences. Despite the IEEE 802.11bn specification for Wi-Fi 8 not being finalized until 2028, companies like Asus and Broadcom are pushing forward with early hardware releases this year, based on draft specifications. This matters because it highlights the rapid pace of technological advancement, potentially influencing consumer decisions on when to upgrade their networking equipment.
