As electronic systems contractors know, wireless local area network technology is being embedded in more and more gear. In fact, shipments of electronic products with embedded wireless local area networking technology (WLAN) will surpass one billion units for the first time ever this year and then rise to more than two billion in 2015, as ubiquitous connectivity increasingly becomes a standard feature, IHS iSuppli research indicates.

Shipments of security systems, consumer electronics, computer, communications and automotive products with built-in WLAN capability such as Wi-Fi will amount to 1.2 billion units this year, up 35.8 percent from 880.4 million units in 2010. In 2015, shipments will nearly double from the 2011 level to reach 2.2 billion.

On the residential side, in today’s world of connected electronics, consumers expect seamless access to Internet communications, services and content at any place and at any time. From sharing Facebook news on their iPads, viewing Hulu programs on their flat-panel TVs, to receiving Web-based intrusion and security video to streaming audio and video in cars with their automotive infotainment systems, consumers depend on built-in WLAN to get the most out of their electronic products.

Percent of Devices with Embedded WLAN

(% Rounded Up)

2002    1%
2010    16%
2011    20%
2015    28%

Source: IHS iSuppli

The penetration of embedded WLAN has risen dramatically in recent years, with some devices that can work with security and home automation systems.