Movistar pulls the plug on wifi 6: what does this mean for your internet?
The great wifi 6 reversal
Hold on to your hats, folks! In a move that’s left many scratching their heads, Movistar, one of spain’s leading telecom operators, has abruptly reversed course on its rollout of WiFi 6 routers. Just months after initially equipping thousands of users with the faster technology, Movistar has quietly removed all mention of the Smart WiFi 6 routers from its website and stopped including them with new fiber optic subscriptions. What’s going on here? We'll dive into the details and speculate on what this could mean for the future of your home internet!
What happened to smart wifi 6?
Previously, customers signing up for fiber optic services received the Smart WiFi 6 router as standard, available for €40 (self-installable) or €90 with professional installation. It was a significant upgrade, promising faster speeds and improved performance. But now? Poof! Gone. New subscriptions for 300 Mbps, 600 Mbps, and 1 Gbps fiber plans no longer automatically include the router. This sudden change has sparked a flurry of confusion and frustration among existing and potential customers.
Cybersecurity experts sound the alarm
While the WiFi 6 shift is perplexing, cybersecurity experts are issuing a crucial reminder: always turn off your mobile phone's WiFi when you leave home! This simple step significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access to your personal data. It's a vital precaution, even with the latest and greatest WiFi technology. Remember, security is an ongoing process, and vigilance is key. Don't let convenience outweigh your digital safety – it's a risk you don't want to take!
Why the sudden change? speculation runs wild
The motivation behind Movistar's decision remains unclear. Speculation is rampant. Are they simply reverting to the older WiFi 5 standard? Or are they preparing for an even bigger leap – the arrival of WiFi 7? Some suggest it's a temporary website adjustment while they deplete existing stock of the older routers, while awaiting a fresh shipment of Smart WiFi 6 units. The guessing game is on, and analysts are closely watching Movistar’s next moves.
Movistar plus+ offer: a distraction?
Amidst the WiFi 6 drama, Movistar is also promoting a new deal for Movistar Plus+, their streaming service. For just €9.99 per month, you can access a wide range of series, movies, and even football – regardless of your current provider! Could this be a strategic move to distract from the router changes, or a genuine attempt to attract new subscribers? It's possible the company is trying to soften the blow of the WiFi 6 rollback with a tempting entertainment offer. It's certainly worth a look!
The future of wifi at movistar: wifi 7 on the horizon?
At the recent MWC 2025 event, Telefónica, Movistar’s parent company, confirmed the launch of a new router this year. The big question is: will it be Smart WiFi 7? Rumors are swirling, suggesting that the next generation of WiFi technology is just around the corner. Movistar could update its website soon to announce the arrival of WiFi 7, or perhaps continue selling the WiFi 5 routers while the Smart WiFi 6 stock diminishes. Stay tuned – this story is far from over!