In-Stat predicts shipments of 802.11ac-enabled devices will soar dramatically-- from 0 in 2011 to nearly 1bn by 2015.
What drives such growth? The ever-pressing demand for more and more speed. The 802.11ac standard promises speeds of up to 1 Gigabit.
The standard also leverages multiple user MIMO, sending streams of data to different users on the same channel-- even if the technology itself is not yet finalised. It will probably involve bonding 4 (or even 8) channels together, and some tweaks to the modulation scheme.
The analyst predicts the first devices carrying the standard should be available by 2012's end; but by 2015 100% of mobile hotspot shipments will be 802.11ac enabled.
Go Zero to a Billion; 802.11ac-Enabled Device Shipments to Soar by 2015