Li-Fi, or Light fidelity is a Visible Light Communications System (VLC) that uses light waves instead of radio waves to provide an internet connection and wireless communication, offering the possibility of reducing network congestion around the globe.

By, using Li-Fi (a phrase coined by Professor Harald Haas of Edinburgh University during a 2011 TED Talk)) a light bulb essentially acts as a router offering data through light solutions for significantly greater security and safety and ultra-fast data transmission rates to deliver extremely low latency and high reliability. It also complements and enhances existing cellular and Wi-Fi networks. Li-Fi is a category of Optical Wireless Communications (OWC), which, besides visible light, includes ultra-violet and infrared communications. However, Li-Fi is unique in that the same light energy used for illumination may also be used for communication. Interestingly, there is 300 terahertz of visible light spectrum so if the infrared spectrum is added to the visible light spectrum, it will be 2,600 times larger than the entire radio spectrum – and it’s free.

In 2018, a scheme piloted the technology in the classroom. Kyle Academy secondary school in Scotland, in collaboration with Edinburgh University, used eight light-enabled LED light bulbs which were installed in the ceiling. Students accessed specific stations that plugged into their laptops enabling high-speed connectivity through the lights.

Then, in June 2019, Ubisoft, a French video game company, used light to transmit data and ran an in-flight video game tournament showcasing Li-Fi technology.

Also, in June, lighting company Signify announced the launch of a new range of Li-Fi systems including the world’s fastest and most reliable Li-Fi systems available for commercial use. Instead of using radio signals (such as Bluetooth, 4G/5G, Wi-Fi, etc.), the range uses light waves to enable reliable, secure two-way wireless communications, at speeds exceeding most conventional wireless technologies of the workplace so it’s ideal for busy areas such a stations, airports or multi-tenancy buildings.

According to Professor Haas, given the increasing number of internet-connected devices in classrooms, the combination of Li-Fi and Wi-Fi can provide the additional bandwidth necessary to reduce network congestion, enabling seamless connectivity for students to download resources and stream educational videos. In addition, Li-Fi has the capability to support big data, and technologies like AI, VR, AR and machine learning.

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