Router brands are slapping Wi-Fi 7 labels on their products, promising faster speeds and lower latency. However, most of these routers are missing a key feature that defines the standard: Multi-Link Operation (MLO).
This means that shoppers may be paying a premium for devices that aren't really upgrades. The Wi-Fi Alliance owns the trademark for "Wi-Fi" with a hyphen, and manufacturers can bypass certification requirements by using "WiFi 7" instead.
The FCC has also blocked the certification of new wireless hardware built outside the US, freezing the Wi-Fi 7 market. As a result, consumers should be cautious when buying a new router and consider factors like their internet plan and devices in their household.
