This report is a primer on how ultra-wideband (UWB) is evolving. It examines the IEEE802.15.4 standard based on its current status, description and, consumer and enterprise use-cases. The report deep-dives into the IEEE802.15.4z standard for IR-UWB and then defines the various communication methods used by the technology for broadcasting messages.
UWB is a wireless communication protocol that operates in the frequency range from 3.1-10.6GHz and has a high bandwidth, up to 500MHz. As a part of the IEEE802.15.4 standard, UWB has evolved through multiple phases based on its usage and applications for ranging and location tracking. Starting from IEEE802.15.4a to the latest being the IEEE802.15.4z, that includes Impulse Radio (IR)-UWB equipped with low-data rate wireless identification and high precision ranging capability suitable for sensing applications such as indoor navigation, asset tracking, tap-free mobile payment, residential access control and others. To enhance the interoperability of UWB devices, evangelise its use-cases among industry players, and promote its usage, multiple standards (such as FiRa Consortium, Car Connectivity Consortium, Omlox and others) have also been created by partner organisations in support of the IEEE standard. Some of the device examples include Apple Air Tag and Samsung Smart Tag Plus used for tracking. A lot of automobile companies such as BMW and Kia are using UWB digital car keys for access.
This report also highlights various alternative technologies to UWB in addition to a detailed description of the potential applications across different industry vertical. It explores the potential and applied UWB use-cases across each industry vertical in detail and recommends ways in which enterprises and consumers can benefit from the emerging technology.
