The finalization of WiFi 6 standards increased user-end device adoption, a trend expected to repeat with WiFi 7, which is anticipated to be finalized by the end of 2024. As market adoption continues, companies investing millions of dollars in developing intellectual property (IP) around standard technologies have an opportunity to monetize their IP.
Furthermore, companies want to strengthen their market positions by acquiring high-value patents, and even non-practicing entities (NPEs) actively seek patents to enforce. However, selling these valuable wireless technology patents requires finding buyers who recognize their worth and are willing to pay a fair price. Without a clear strategy, there’s a risk of underselling or missing out on key buyers.
If you are considering selling your Next-Generation Wireless Technology Patents, we have identified active buyers in this space. Our analysis of recent IP transactions in WiFi 6 and WiFi 7 technology shows who is acquiring patents and whether NPEs are involved.
Analyzing Trends in WiFi 6 and WiFi 7 IP Transactions
Patent transactions peaked in 2021, shortly after the WiFi 6 standard was finalized. This reflects the strong demand for WiFi 6-related patents as companies move quickly to capitalize on the new standard.
In contrast, the WiFi 7 space, still in its early stages, has experienced relatively few transactions. However, with the WiFi 7 standard expected to be finalized this year, a substantial increase in IP transfers is anticipated in the coming years.
Top Buyers of WiFi 6 Patents
Here’s a breakdown of the top companies buying wifi-6 patents.
| Top Buyers/Lending Entities | No. of Patent families acquired |
| Atlas Global Technologies Llc | 93 |
| Wilmington Trust | 12 |
| International Semiconductor Group | 11 |
| Solid Inc | 8 |
| Samsung | 8 |
| Conversant Intellectual Property Management Inc | 5 |
| Magnotod Llc | 4 |
| Malikie Innovations Limited | 4 |
| Wells Fargo Trust Company | 4 |
| Apple | 4 |
| Jiangsu Zhongxing Weitong Information Science And Technology Co Ltd | 3 |
| Redwood Technologies Llc | 2 |
| National Science Foundation | 2 |
| Sisvel International Sa | 2 |
| Cormatrix Cardiovascular Inc | 2 |
| Avago | 2 |
Trends in WiFi 6 Transactions
High Activity Among Buyers:
Atlas Global Technologies LLC emerges as the dominant buyer in the WiFi 6 space, having acquired a significant number of patent families. Notably, they have enforced these patents against leading WiFi manufacturers. Traditional financial institutions like Wilmington Trust and Wells Fargo Trust Company are also active, highlighting the use of IP as a valuable asset in financial transactions and trusts.
NPE Involvement:
Entities such as Conversant Intellectual Property Management Inc. and Sisvel International SA, known for their roles as Non-Practicing Entities (NPEs), are actively participating in the market. This suggests they see considerable value in acquiring and enforcing WiFi 6-related patents.
Implications for WiFi 7:
Given their aggressive acquisition strategies in the WiFi 6 space, it is highly likely that these same buyers will be actively seeking to acquire WiFi 7 patents as well. As the WiFi 7 standard finalizes, these entities are expected to continue their strategic investments to secure a strong position in the next wave of wireless technology.
Initial Buyers of Wifi-7 Patents
Now, turning to patent buying activities in the WiFi 7 space, we see that, despite its early stage, several companies have already begun making strategic moves, indicating a growing demand for patents.
This early interest offers a key opportunity for sellers to position their IP assets for maximum value. The following entities are currently active in acquiring WiFi 7-related patents.:
| Top Buyers/Lending Entities | No. of Patent families Acquired |
| Wells Fargo Trust Company | 5 |
| Wilmington Trust | 3 |
| JPMorgan | 3 |
| Ruckus Ip Holdings Llc | 1 |
| Western Alliance Bank | 1 |
| Farah Capital Limited | Nerve Investment Spv Ltd | 1 |
| Citibank | 1 |
| Maxlinear | 1 |
| Chengdu Pomei Science And Tech Co Ltd | 1 |
| Mavenir Networks Inc | 1 |
Emerging Trends in WiFi 7 Transactions
- Growing Buyer Interest:
Although the number of transactions in the WiFi 7 space is currently limited, the involvement of major financial institutions like Wells Fargo Trust Company and Wilmington Trust indicates a rising demand for WiFi 7 patents. Sellers with valuable IP in this area should note these institutions are likely to continue their buying spree as the technology matures.
- Strategic Acquisitions:
Companies like Maxlinear and Mavenir Networks Inc. are positioning themselves as early movers by acquiring key patents in the WiFi 7 space. If you’re considering selling your patents, these companies could be interested buyers looking to strengthen their portfolios as the standard finalizes.
- Opportunities for Sellers:
Based on the activity observed in the WiFi 6 market, buyers actively acquiring patents during that phase are expected to do the same with WiFi 7. Entities like Atlas Global Technologies LLC and Conversant Intellectual Property Management Inc, which were aggressive in purchasing WiFi 6 patents, are likely to be looking for WiFi 7 assets as well.
This presents an opportunity for sellers to negotiate favorable terms with top buyers of wireless technology patents.
Conclusion
As the demand for WiFi 6 and WiFi 7 patents grows, sellers can take advantage of this increasing market. However, selling a patent is not just about finding a buyer; it’s about ensuring you get the best price for your valuable intellectual property assets.
Conducting thorough due diligence is essential to understanding your patents‘ true value, including evaluating their strength, assessing potential infringement issues, and identifying market trends that may affect their worth. Creating customized reports highlighting your patents’ strategic value to potential buyers can significantly increase their appeal and marketability.
To fully showcase the potential of patents before selling, attract serious buyers, and achieve the maximum return on your investment, fill out the form below to utilize patent infringement analysis.
Authored By – Aman Kumar, Prior-art and Annie Sharma, Market Research
