A team of researchers has created a miniature antenna made from denim fabric that supports both 5G and Wi-Fi networks. The dual-band MIMO (multiple-input-multiple-output) antenna aims to improve connectivity for wearable devices and Internet of Things (IoT) applications.

The antenna's compact design and use of everyday denim material could make it easier to integrate wireless capabilities into clothing and other fabric-based products. Measuring just a few centimeters across, the antenna operates in both the 3.5 GHz band used for 5G and the 5 GHz Wi-Fi band.

MIMO technology, which uses multiple antennas to transmit and receive data simultaneously, is crucial for achieving the high speeds and low latency promised by 5G networks. By incorporating MIMO capabilities into a flexible, wearable form factor, the denim antenna could enable better performance for smart clothing and portable devices.

The researchers demonstrated the antenna's effectiveness through testing, though real-world performance in consumer products remains to be seen. As the IoT ecosystem continues to grow rapidly – with projections of 125 billion connected devices by 2030 – innovations in compact, versatile antennas will likely play an important role in expanding wireless connectivity to new types of products.

While this particular denim antenna is still in the research phase, it highlights ongoing efforts to make wireless technology more ubiquitous and seamlessly integrated into everyday objects. As 5G networks become more widespread, we may see an increasing variety of materials and form factors used to create antennas that blend into clothing, furniture, vehicles, and other common items.