Modem 3

The term 'Modem 3' primarily refers to the Smart Modem 3, a high-performance WiFi 6 gateway deployed by major telecommunications companies like Telstra (Australia) and Spark (New Zealand). Market interest in this product has surged in 2026, reaching a peak search interest score of 92 in April 2026 .

Product Insights: Smart Modem 3

The Smart Modem 3 is designed for fiber and high-speed DSL connections, positioning it as a top-tier residential gateway SparkSpark.

* Performance: Features WiFi 6 (802.11ax) technology with a total throughput of 5.66 Gbps (AX3500). It includes a 2.5Gb WAN port to support multi-gigabit fiber plans Spark.

* Sustainability: A major market differentiator is its eco-friendly design. The enclosure is made from 85% post-consumer recycled plastics, and the packaging is 100% plastic-free and recyclable Telstra.

* Security: Incorporates WPA3 encryption, the latest industry standard, ensuring robust protection for connected home devices Spark.

Market Trends & Industry Context

The broader "Modem 3" market reflects a shift toward higher speed standards and sustainable hardware.

* WiFi 6 Adoption: The transition from WiFi 5 to WiFi 6 (and now WiFi 6E/7) is the dominant trend, driven by the need for lower latency and better multi-device handling in smart homes PcworldLinkedin.

* DOCSIS 3.1 & 4.0: In the cable segment, DOCSIS 3.1 remains the current standard, offering up to 10 Gbps speeds, while DOCSIS 4.0 is beginning to emerge as the next-generation upgrade CablelabsCnet.

* Market Growth: The global modem market (including VDSL and cellular) is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.4% to 7.5% through 2033, fueled by digital transformation and AI-driven data demands WiseguyreportsLinkedin.

Commercial Availability

For B2B sourcing, various WiFi 6 gateways and "modem 3" style devices are available from manufacturers, ranging from portable 4G LTE modems to high-end industrial IoT gateways .