Wi-Fi 7 is barely out the door, yet tech companies are already touting the benefits of Wi-Fi 8. Most recently, Asus demoed its concept ROG Wi-Fi 8 router at CES 2026, claiming the technology will solve many common connectivity issues.
Networking companies have been working on Wi-Fi 8 tests for a while now, with TP-Link announcing a successful test of the technology in late 2025. Asus claims that its concept router, the ROG NeoCore, showcased the first “real-world” throughput test, demonstrating what to expect from Wi-Fi 8.
In its current form, Wi-Fi 8 isn’t expected to introduce major speed increases, a sentiment expressed by Tenlong Deng, Asus’ Corporate VP & General Manager of Wireless and Networking.
“Wi-Fi 8 is not just about chasing peak speed — it’s about making every connection smarter and more reliable,” Deng said.
Wi-Fi 7, which received official certification by the Wi-Fi Alliance in 2024, introduced several improvements, including faster data transfers via the wider 6GHz network band. Conversely, Wi-Fi 8 is aimed at improving network reliability.
Reliable connections for mixed reality devices and IoT systems are a major focus, as is reducing network congestion. According to Asus, its Wi-Fi 8 testing focused on reducing speed degradation over distance, and in environments prone to signal interference, like from neighbours’ routers.
Although the ROG NeoCore is a concept router, Asus plans to launch a series of Wi-Fi 8 routers throughout 2026. However, Wi-Fi 8 is yet to receive official certification from the Wi-Fi Alliance. It’s not until 2028 that the IEEE 802.11bn (colloquially known as Wi-Fi 8) working group is expected to complete the wireless standard, after which official certification will follow.
Wi-Fi 7 is still in its early stages, too. Plenty of Wi-Fi 7 routers are available, but compatible phones, computers, and IoT devices are yet to follow. As such, don’t expect Wi-Fi 8 to be ubiquitous any time soon.
