GoPhotonics interviewed Jeroen van Gils, the Founder and Managing Director of LiFi.co. Jeroen van Gils is a pioneering advocate for LiFi technology. He also leads Morex, a dynamic marketing solutions company. Jeroen's unwavering passion for LiFi technology drives his mission to revolutionize connectivity and explore its vast potential.

Q. Can you tell us about the LiFi Group (LiFi.co)? When was the group formed, what was its objective, and how has it evolved over the years?

Jeroen van Gils: LiFi.co was founded in 2017 with the mission of revolutionizing wireless communication through LiFi technology. Initially focused on pioneering advancements in this field, we quickly established partnerships with leading companies in the LiFi industry. Our collaborations have led to the co-launch of several innovative products, continuously pushing the boundaries of technology and improving adoption rates. As we move forward, we are rebranding to The LiFi Group to better reflect our expanded vision and commitment to a broader range of smart living solutions.

Our latest initiative, LifeSmart by LiFi.co, marks a significant milestone in our journey. LifeSmart represents a complete ecosystem of smart home and office products, from air purifiers to smart plugs, designed to enhance connectivity and security. This new range embodies the same dedication to quality and innovation that defines our LiFi technology, ensuring a seamless and secure smart living experience.

Q. What is LiFi Technology? How does it work?

Jeroen van Gils: LiFi, or Light Fidelity, is a wireless communication technology that uses light waves to transmit data. Unlike traditional RF (radio frequency) technologies such as WiFi, LiFi primarily uses infrared (IR) light, which is invisible to the human eye, to deliver high-speed, secure internet connectivity. LiFi works by modulating the light intensity from an LED light source, which is then detected by a photodiode receiver. This process allows for ultra-fast data transfer rates and enhanced security, making it an excellent alternative to RF-based systems.

Q. Why and when would we use LiFi Technology over RF Technology?

Jeroen van Gils: LiFi technology offers several advantages over RF technology, making it ideal for specific applications. LiFi provides higher data transfer speeds and improved security since light waves do not penetrate walls, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. It's particularly beneficial in environments where RF interference is a concern, such as hospitals, airplanes, and industrial settings. Additionally, LiFi can be used in EMF-sensitive environments, offering a safer alternative for people who are sensitive to electromagnetic fields.

Q. What are the main challenges that LiFi Technology faces?

Jeroen van Gils: Despite its many advantages, LiFi technology faces challenges in terms of infrastructure and widespread adoption. One of the primary hurdles is the need for specialized equipment, such as LiFi-enabled LEDs and photodiode receivers, which can be more expensive than traditional RF-based systems. Another challenge is the limited range and line-of-sight requirement, as LiFi signals cannot pass through walls or obstacles. However, ongoing research and development efforts are addressing these issues, and we are optimistic about overcoming these challenges in the near future.

Q. Can you tell us about some applications that LiFi technology can enable or do more efficiently than other technologies?

Jeroen van Gils: LiFi technology excels in environments where high data transfer rates, low latency, and enhanced security are critical. For instance, in hospitals, LiFi can provide interference-free communication for medical devices, ensuring patient safety and data integrity. In industrial settings, LiFi can enable real-time monitoring and control of machinery, improving operational efficiency. Additionally, LiFi is ideal for smart home and office applications, offering seamless connectivity for IoT devices and secure internet access without the risks associated with RF interference.

Q. In terms of adoption, where does LiFi Technology lie now? Can you tell us about some use cases where this technology can be adopted at scale?

Jeroen van Gils: Currently, LiFi technology is in a specialized stage of adoption, predominantly used in schools, universities, and industrial applications. However, we see tremendous potential for LiFi in home and office environments as a complementary technology to WiFi. For instance, in smart homes, LiFi can provide high-speed, secure connectivity for streaming, gaming, and IoT devices. In offices, LiFi can enhance data security and reduce network congestion, offering a reliable alternative to traditional WiFi networks. As awareness and infrastructure improve, we anticipate LiFi becoming a mainstream technology in various sectors.

Q. Can you tell us about your product portfolio? Who is buying these products? Has there been an increase in sales over the last few months/years?

Jeroen van Gils: Our product portfolio is diverse, catering to various audiences and needs. We offer a range of LiFi solutions, including the recently launched LiFiMAX Compact, designed for homes, offices, and small businesses. Additionally, we provide custom LiFi solutions in collaboration with our development and implementation partners. Our customer base includes educational institutions, industrial enterprises, and tech-savvy consumers seeking advanced connectivity solutions. Over the past few years, we have seen a steady increase in sales, driven by growing awareness and the expanding adoption of LiFi technology.

Q. LiFi.co recently launched LIFIMAX Compact. Can you tell us about this product?

Jeroen van Gils: The LiFiMAX Compact is an innovative plug-and-play LiFi system that delivers fast, secure, and reliable wireless internet through invisible light. It connects to your modem, with an access point mounted on the ceiling and a USB dongle for your device. This system offers speeds up to 100 Mbps, supports up to 16 users, and features ultra-low latency, making it ideal for EMF-sensitive environments. Compatible with various operating systems, the LiFiMAX Compact is perfect for homes, offices, and small businesses, providing a seamless and secure internet experience.

Q. What, according to you, are the common misconceptions regarding this technology?

Jeroen van Gils: One common misconception is that LiFi technology competes with WiFi. In reality, LiFi is designed to complement WiFi by providing additional bandwidth and enhancing security in environments where RF interference is an issue. Another misconception is that LiFi requires visible light to function. While early versions of LiFi used visible light, modern LiFi systems primarily use infrared light, which is invisible to the human eye, ensuring continuous connectivity without disrupting everyday activities.

Q. How has 2023 been for LiFi.co? What were the highlights? What are the plans for 2024? Are there any new products/solutions on the horizon?

Jeroen van Gils: 2023 has been an exciting year for LiFi.co, marked by significant milestones and achievements. We formed several strategic partnerships, launched new products, and made considerable strides in promoting LiFi adoption. Our highlights include the successful launch of the LiFiMAX Compact and the introduction of the LifeSmart product range. Looking ahead to 2024, we plan to continue expanding our product portfolio, enhancing our technology, and increasing market adoption. We are also working on several new products and solutions that will further solidify our position as a leader in smart connectivity.

In conclusion, LiFi.co is at the forefront of a technological revolution, bringing innovative solutions to the forefront of smart living and working environments. With our continued dedication to quality, security, and customer satisfaction, we are excited about the future and the endless possibilities that LiFi technology offers.

About LiFi.co

LiFi.co, a company where a new standard for internet connectivity is being set. The aim of the company is to bring the speed and security of light-based internet into practical use. LiFi technology uses light to deliver data faster and more securely than traditional Wi-Fi. The solutions offered are tailored for businesses and tech enthusiasts ready to embrace the future of connectivity. Whether for a bustling office, a tech-savvy household, or a critical healthcare setting, LiFi systems provide a robust and efficient alternative to conventional wireless networks. 

As pioneers in the industry, LiFi.co is dedicated to enhancing the digital landscape with reliable, high-speed LiFi solutions that meet the demands of today’s online world. The mission is to eradicate poor connectivity. At LiFi.co, cutting-edge technology meets user-friendly solutions, offering easy-to-install and easy-to-use systems that redefine connectivity. By simplifying the complexities of LiFi, LiFi.co ensures a seamless transition to a robust, reliable network ready for the future of the internet.