Overcoming Innovation Resistance in the Advent of LiFi Technology
Introduction
LiFi, short for Light Fidelity, is a wireless communication technology that uses light to transmit data. Despite being hailed as the future of internet connectivity with its promise of lightning-fast data transmission, LiFi technology has had its fair share of resistance and pushback. In this article, we will delve into the subject of LiFi technology innovation resistance.
Firstly, we want to express our full gratitude to Tobias Hlobil, whose extensive thesis on this subject has shed considerable light on the resistance that LiFi technology has encountered. Tobias is a project engineer at IB Wüllner GmbH and has permitted us to incorporate his valuable insights of the innovation resistance of LiFi.
Tobias held many conversations with specialists from diverse sectors who are actively engaged with Optical Wireless Communication (OWC) technologies and specifically with LiFi. This included engaging with researchers from the HHI, CEOs and scientific professionals from LiFi product manufacturing companies, and individuals managing pilot projects. In addition, input was taken from representatives of both lobbying groups and consumer protection organisations. To gather data, a variety of methods were employed, including structured interviews, written surveys, and open-ended information exchanges via email or phone calls.
Before we delve into the innovative resistance of LiFi technology, it is crucial to understand the general concept of innovation resistance. Innovation resistance is defined as the reluctance to adopt an innovation despite acknowledging its advantages. This resistance can be due to several factors including perceived high cost, lack of perceived need, fear of obsolescence, and reluctance to change established routines.
In the context of new technology, innovation resistance can manifest in various forms. One common aspect is inertia or resistance to change, where people are comfortable with existing technologies and are hesitant to switch to something new. This resistance may stem from a fear of the unknown, concerns about the reliability or compatibility of the new technology, or the perceived risks associated with its implementation.
Innovation Resistance and LiFi Technology
LiFi technology, despite its potential benefits, has faced several forms of innovation resistance. From a general lack of awareness about the technology to concerns over the potential health implications of constant exposure to light, to the need for a line-of-sight connection, several factors have contributed to the reluctance of embracing this promising technology.
LiFi also faces stiff competition from established technologies like Wi-Fi and 5G. In many cases, people are comfortable with their current internet connectivity solutions and see no need to transition to a new technology. This form of resistance, known as status quo bias, is particularly challenging to overcome.
One of the significant insights from Tobias' thesis is the need to focus on creating a seamless user experience. In the technology world, a smooth, hassle-free user experience often tips the scales in favour of a new product or innovation. By ensuring that the transition to LiFi is as simple as possible and the user experience is satisfactory, the level of resistance can be considerably lowered. For instance, developing LiFi-enabled devices that are easily integrated with existing technologies can help reduce perceived inconvenience among users.
Another important recommendation from Tobias is for LiFi technology providers to actively collaborate with other stakeholders in the technology ecosystem, including device manufacturers, lighting companies, and regulatory authorities. By working together, these stakeholders can help to create an environment that is conducive to the adoption and growth of LiFi.
Tobias, in his master's thesis, also highlighted the substantial resistance to LiFi innovation due to the high system costs and the dearth of integrated hardware in end-user devices. Currently, connectivity via dongles is the norm, which, according to him, is neither practical nor universally applicable. Furthermore, he underscored the fragmentation in the industry with disparate systems lacking compatibility, causing impediments to effective communication. This non-uniformity hinders device manufacturers from committing to any specific system, reiterating the need for standardisation that ensures the interoperability of systems and the seamless integration of the requisite hardware.
He added that for LiFi technology to achieve industrial adoption and large-scale production, several barriers need to be overcome:
1) Assurance of latency fidelity and standardisation
2) Establishment of redundant systems
3) Successful completion of reference projects (ElioT, LINCNET)
4) Reduction in costs
In his discussions with manufacturers, Tobias found that consumers often prioritise system flexibility over the combination of light and data transmission. Users' diverse requirements for lighting and data transmission solutions further complicate the efficient integration of these technologies.
He envisions a roadmap for the widespread integration of Optical Wireless Communication (OWC) technologies like LiFi over the next decade. Comprehensive integration into smartphones, supported by requisite infrastructure, forms the cornerstone of this ambition.
For technology to carve out a market niche, it must either be cost-effective or offer superior functionality. Tobias recognises that given the current cost profile of OWC technologies, their initial foothold in the market will likely be won through their functional advantages.
Drawing from his discussions, Tobias notes that despite the significant research in this area, the innovations that cater to genuine customer needs are still sparse. Thus, he emphasises the necessity of fostering information exchange and aligning interests among all stakeholders.
He also believes that the promise of OWC technologies is undeniable and multifaceted. However, proprietary solutions driven by competitive interests have delayed their broader acceptance. He recounts an instance where a large electronics retailer backed off from incorporating indoor navigation based on OWC technology due to supplier dependence.
Health Impact of LiFi and The Need for Evidence
His Master's thesis stresses the importance of investigating the potential health effects of LiFi technology. To date, there is a paucity of studies exploring the impact of modulated light beams used for LiFi on humans and animals. He argues that it's imperative to broaden research beyond just eye health and delve into potential mechanisms that might allow humans to perceive light modulations used for LiFi.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that LiFi systems have a less adverse effect on electrohypersensitive individuals compared to RF-based technologies like Wi-Fi. Tobias, however, calls for comprehensive scientific studies to validate such claims.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Tobias' thesis illuminates the undeniable and varied potential of LiFi technology. Yet, for this technology to be integrated into our devices in the coming decade, he strongly emphasises the need for stakeholders to align the promising research with the needs of future users, turning them into tangible and valuable use cases.
Despite the resistance, the future of LiFi technology appears promising. With growing awareness and continued efforts to address the concerns related to LiFi technology, we are optimistic that the innovation resistance of LiFi can and will be overcome. In time, we may see LiFi technology move from the realm of novelty to become a standard feature in homes and businesses around the world.
As we move towards a more interconnected world, technologies like LiFi will play an essential role in shaping our digital future. The challenge lies in overcoming the resistance to its adoption. The lessons learned from the experiences of LiFi thus far, and the insights offered by Tobias Hlobil, provide us with the tools needed to meet this challenge head-on.
