The Future of Connectivity: How Wireless and 5G Are Converging to Transform Industries

In a world increasingly dependent on seamless connectivity, the convergence of wireless technologies and 5G is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a revolution. To understand the intricacies of this transformation, I sat down with Bruno Tomas, Chief Technology Officer of the Wireless Broadband Alliance (WBA), to explore the challenges, innovations, and future possibilities of this dynamic landscape.

A Visionary Leader in Wireless Innovation

Bruno Tomas brings a wealth of expertise to the table. With a background in electrical and computer engineering, complemented by a master’s degree in telecom systems, Tomas has spent over a decade at the forefront of wireless technology. His career began with Portugal Telecom, followed by a stint in Brazil focusing on network standards. For the past 12 years, Tomas has been a driving force at the WBA, where he spearheads efforts to create technical specifications and guidelines that ensure seamless interoperability between Wi-Fi, 3G, LTE, and 5G.

“At the WBA, we bring together vendors, operators, and integrators to drive innovation and usability in wireless networks,” Tomas explains. “Our goal is to make connectivity effortless and ubiquitous, no matter where you are.”

The Challenges of Integration

Achieving seamless integration between wireless technologies and 5G is no small feat. Tomas highlights the complexities of real-world applications, particularly in enterprise and public environments. For instance, in manufacturing facilities or warehouses, metal structures and interference can disrupt connectivity, posing significant challenges.

To address these issues, the WBA collaborates with a diverse ecosystem of partners, including vendors, chipset manufacturers, device communities, and integrators. Together, they develop field-tested guidelines and innovative solutions like OpenRoaming, which enables seamless transitions between networks, including IoT, reducing the burden on IT managers and CIOs.

The Power of Collaboration: WBA’s Tiger Teams

One of the WBA’s most effective strategies is its “Tiger Teams”—specialized working groups that bring together technical experts from leading companies such as AT&T, Intel, Broadcom, and AirTies. These teams tackle specific challenges collaboratively, ensuring that their recommendations are practical and field-ready.

“For example, in our 5G & Wi-Fi convergence group, we define requirements and scenarios for industries like aerospace or healthcare,” Tomas shares. “This collaborative approach drives innovation while addressing real-world challenges.”

OpenRoaming: Simplifying Connectivity

OpenRoaming is a game-changer for businesses and consumers alike. This technology simplifies connectivity by allowing users to move seamlessly between Wi-Fi and cellular networks without manual logins or configurations.

“Imagine a hospital where doctors move between different buildings while using tablets for patient care,” Tomas illustrates. “With OpenRoaming, they can stay connected without interruptions, ensuring uninterrupted access to critical information.”

For enterprises, OpenRoaming minimizes the need for extensive IT support and reduces costs while ensuring high-quality service.

The State of Adoption: 5G and Wi-Fi 6

The adoption of 5G and Wi-Fi 6 is accelerating, but the pace varies across regions. Wi-Fi 6 has been a game-changer, offering better modulation and spectrum management, making it ideal for high-density environments like factories or stadiums. On the 5G side, private networks are gaining traction, particularly in industries like manufacturing, but integration with existing systems remains a hurdle.

“In Europe, regulatory and infrastructural challenges slow things down, while the U.S. and APAC regions are moving faster,” Tomas notes. “The key is to ensure that these technologies are accessible and interoperable, regardless of location.”

The Role of AI in Wireless and 5G Convergence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is playing a critical role in optimizing network performance and enabling real-time decision-making. The WBA has launched initiatives to incorporate AI into wireless networking, helping systems predict and adapt to user needs.

“For instance, AI can guide network steering—deciding whether a device should stay on Wi-Fi or switch to 5G based on signal quality and usage patterns,” Tomas explains. “This kind of automation will be essential as networks become more complex.”

The Future: Endless Possibilities

Looking ahead, Tomas is excited about the potential for convergence to enable new use cases. From smart cities and advanced manufacturing to immersive experiences with AR and VR, the opportunities are limitless. Wi-Fi 7, the next generation of wireless technology, promises even greater capacity and coverage, making it possible to deliver gigabit speeds in dense environments like stadiums or urban centers.

“Conversely, we are starting to look into 6G,” Tomas adds. “One trend is clear: Wi-Fi should be integrated within a 6G framework, enabling densification. At the WBA, we’re committed to ensuring these advancements are accessible, interoperable, and sustainable.”

As we stand on the brink of a new era in connectivity, the work of visionaries like Bruno Tomas and organizations like the WBA is paving the way for a future where seamless, high-speed connectivity is the norm, not the exception. The convergence of wireless and 5G is not just transforming industries—it’s transforming lives.

Tags: Wireless Connectivity, 5G, Wi-Fi 6, OpenRoaming, AI in Networking, Private Networks, Smart Cities, AR/VR, Wi-Fi 7, 6G, Network Convergence, Enterprise Connectivity, IoT, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Stadiums, Urban Centers, Sustainability, Interoperability, Innovation, Collaboration, Tiger Teams, Gigaom, WBA Industry Report 2025

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