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eusouoviana/Automated WiFi Network Selection and Prioritization Feature Enhancement.md

Last active August 11, 2023 21:59
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Automated WiFi Network Selection and Prioritization Feature Enhancement
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Automated WiFi Network Selection and Prioritization Feature Enhancement.md

Dear Apple Engineering Team,

I am a Senior Software Engineer based in Brazil who uses all products from the Apple line, such as iPhone 14 Pro Max, MacBook Pro, AirPods Pro, etc.

I want to propose an enhancement to the existing Wi-Fi functionality on iOS devices, specifically regarding the automatic scanning, prioritization, and connection to the strongest and nearest previously connected Wi-Fi networks.

Problem Statement

Current iOS Wi-Fi functionality may not always choose the optimal network in an environment with multiple Wi-Fi networks, causing a reduced connectivity experience.

Example Case

In a two-story house with different Wi-Fi networks on every floor, I need to manually change the current Wi-Fi network every time I go up and down the stairs; otherwise, I might stay connected with less network performance and speed.

Proposed Solution

Implement a system that prioritizes connection to the nearest and strongest Wi-Fi networks within the saved network list. This would entail in the following possible steps:

  1. Signal Strength Analysis: Utilizing existing libraries such as Apple's Core WLAN framework for iOS to monitor the signal strength of available networks actively.

  2. Location-Based Prioritization: Integrating Core Location to accurately determine the user's position relative to various Wi-Fi networks, thereby enabling intelligent network selection.

  3. Seamless Handover Between Networks: Facilitating an automatic switch between networks based on real-time analysis without disrupting the active sessions. This can be achieved through the IEEE 802.11k/v/r standards.

  4. User Control and Preferences: Allowing users to set preferences for network selection, adding an extra layer of personalization and enforcing the user-centric culture of Apple.

Relevant Examples & Studies:

  1. Google’s Wi-Fi Assistant in their Android OS already employs similar functionality.

  2. Study on Wi-Fi Signal Strength Optimization [1], [2], [3]

  3. IEEE Standard for Wi-Fi Roaming and Fast Transition [1], [2], [3]

Conclusion

Implementing this feature would significantly enhance the user experience by ensuring optimal connection quality at all times, thus aligning with Apple's commitment to innovation and user-centric design.

The time savings for users who no longer have to switch networks manually could result in an estimated 20-30 hours saved annually per user. By adopting this feature, Apple would once again be at the forefront of providing a seamless and efficient user experience, which is both a convenience and a necessity in our increasingly connected world.

I urge the team to consider this enhancement, recognizing its potential to affirm Apple's position as a technological leader in providing exceptional and intelligent connectivity solutions.

Thank you for considering this proposal.
I explicitly authorize Apple Engineers to contact me if necessary.

Sincerely,

João Pedro Barbosa Viana
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp: +55 53 999506186

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