High-speed internet technology research centre

Referred to as Li-Fi, this new light-based communication technology is transmitted using light waves instead of existing radio technology. Fuelled predominantly by the revolution in smartphone and tablet technologies, demand for wireless internet access is in danger of exceeding the amount that can currently be supplied by Wi-Fi. Seen by many as the successor to 4G, researchers believe that Li-Fi has no such limitations and could enable this potential capacity crisis to be overcome. Using light to deliver wireless internet, Li-Fi will enable connectivity in environments that do not currently support Wi-Fi, such as aircraft cabins and hospitals.

The University of Edinburgh has a strong track record in communications research and providing industry solutions to this sector. This new R&D centre in Edinburgh is a unique opportunity for the UK to lead the global development of Li-Fi technology," commented Professor Lesley Yellowlees, Head of the University of Edinburgh's College of Science and Engineering.

The new Li-Fi R&D Centre in Edinburgh will encourage collaboration between world-leading experts from the University and other key research institutes around the world. Although, researchers at the Centre are keen to identify new industrial partners and to collaborate more widely with major international electronics companies to further develop Li-Fi technology. Chair of Mobile Communications at the University of Edinburgh and co-founder of a spin-out company, pureLiFi, Professor Harald Haas, widely recognised as the "father of Li-Fi", will be a key player in the new centre.

Professor Haas comments: "This internationally leading UK centre will accelerate the adoption of Li-Fi and emerging wireless technology through engagement with major industrial partners, to fully harness the commercial and innovative potential of Li-Fi, and establish a major new $6billion (USD) Li-Fi industry."