The finalization of WiFi 6 standards marked a significant shift in wireless technology, leading to increased adoption in user-end devices. As we approach the anticipated finalization of WiFi 7 by the end of 2024, similar trends are expected, allowing companies to monetize their investments in intellectual property (IP).
Therefore, the market presents a lucrative avenue for patent buyers looking to acquire valuable patents in these evolving technologies to strengthen their patent portfolio.
Our analysis of recent IP transactions in WiFi 6 and WiFi 7 technology reveals the innovators and companies selling their patents. This article will help you understand the trends, identify key sellers, and spot opportunities in the market for acquiring high-value patents.
Trends in WiFi 6 & WiFi 7 IP Transactions
IP transactions in the WiFi 6 domain peaked in 2021, just a year after the WiFi 6 standard was finalized. This surge reflects the heightened interest in securing valuable patents as the standard took hold across the industry. Conversely, the WiFi 7 space, still in its infancy, has seen fewer transactions. However, with the WiFi 7 standard on the verge of finalization, a significant increase in IP transfers is anticipated in the near future.
For those looking to acquire high-value patents, now is an opportune time to identify sellers who possess valuable IP assets in the WiFi 6 and WiFi 7 spaces.
Top Sellers of WiFi 6 Patents
Here’s a breakdown of the top companies that have been active sellers in the WiFi 6 domain:
| Top Sellers/Borrowing Entities | No. of Patent families |
| Newracom Inc | 96 |
| Toshiba | 13 |
| Intel | 11 |
| Arris Enterprises Llc | 10 |
| Panasonic | 5 |
| ZTE | 5 |
| Charter Communications Operating Llc | 4 |
| Conexant Inc | 4 |
| Magnolia Broadband Inc | 4 |
| Neptune Research Llc | 4 |
| Alcatel Lucent | 3 |
| Frontside | 3 |
| Samsung | 3 |
| French Institute For Research In Computer Science And Automation | 3 |
| Blackberry | 3 |
| Proxim Inc | 2 |
| Ossia Inc | 2 |
| LG | 2 |
| IBM | 2 |
Key Trends from WiFi 6
High Activity Among Buyers:
Newracom Inc. stands out as a leading seller with a large number of transactions. This might suggest monetizing existing IP to fuel further R&D or other business activities. Major technology companies like Toshiba, Intel, and Panasonic are also selling patents, possibly to streamline their portfolios or generate revenue from non-core assets.
Top Sellers of WiFi 7 Patents
Now, turning to the WiFi 7 space. While transactions are currently limited, the following entities have already positioned themselves as early sellers of Wifi-7 patents.
| Top Sellers/Borrowing Entities | No. of Patent families |
| Charter Communications Operating Llc | 5 |
| Sonos | 2 |
| Arris Enterprises Llc | 2 |
| Chengdu Xgimi Technology Co Ltd | 1 |
| Ossia Inc | 1 |
| Mavenir Networks Inc | 1 |
| Commscope Technologies LLC | 1 |
| Semiconductor Components Industries LLC | 1 |
| Versa Networks Inc | 1 |
| Citrix Systems | 1 |
| Magic Leap Inc | 1 |
| Federated Wireless | 1 |
Initial Trends from WiFi 7
Initial Trends from WiFi 7:
- Strategic Positioning:
- Companies like Charter Communications Operating LLC are already active sellers, likely looking to capitalize on their early investments in WiFi 7-related technologies.
- Potential for Growth:
- As the WiFi 7 standard is finalized and market adoption grows, the volume of IP transactions is expected to rise significantly. Companies seeking to establish a strong position in the WiFi 7 market should act soon to acquire valuable IP.
Conclusion
The IP transaction landscape for WiFi 6 and WiFi 7 is rapidly evolving, offering buyers a unique opportunity to acquire valuable patents that can strengthen their market positions.
However, this also presents the challenge of ensuring that the patents you acquire hold real value and have strong monetization potential. A systematic patent acquisition strategy will streamline the process and minimize risks, increasing the likelihood of securing high-value assets.
Leverage GreyB’s expertise and experience to maximize the value of your patent acquisition and mitigate potential risks at every stage of the process.
Authored By – Aman Kumar, Prior-art and Annie Sharma, Market Research
