NearLink Technology
Technology overview, official hardware and documentation index
Overview
NearLink (SparkLink) is a short-range wireless standard promoted by the SparkLink Alliance. It defines modes such as SLE (low energy) and SLB (high speed), aiming for a better balance between latency, concurrency and reliability.
Technical features
- Low latency: designed for real-time control and interactive use cases
- High reliability: retransmission and interference-resistance mechanisms
- Many connections: built for high-density device networks
- Low power: SLE mode targets battery-powered devices
This page only summarizes public vendor documentation and does not publish untested compatibility claims. Check HiSilicon and module vendor documents for final specifications, availability and tooling.
Official hardware
Publicly documented NearLink hardware is mainly based on the HiSilicon WS63 (Hi3863) family, plus Hi2821/BS21 and Hi3873 platforms, typically offered as development boards, modules and gateways.
| Platform | Wireless | Typical form |
|---|---|---|
| WS63 / Hi3863 | Wi-Fi 6 + BLE 5.x + SLE 1.0 | Development boards, modules |
| Hi2821 / BS21 | SLE low energy | Compact boards, modules |
| Hi3873 | SLE high speed / gateway | Ethernet modules, gateways |
ZouIC has not listed NearLink boards yet; entries are added only after official specifications and purchase channels are verified.
Official resources
FAQ
How does NearLink relate to Bluetooth and Wi-Fi?
NearLink is a separate short-range standard positioned alongside Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. SoCs such as WS63 integrate Wi-Fi, BLE and SLE so developers can choose the right radio per use case.
What can individual developers buy today?
Development boards and modules based on WS63/Hi3863 and Hi2821/BS21 are available. Verify the exact chip, antenna configuration and SDK support before buying.
Will ZouIC list NearLink boards?
Yes, but only after official specifications, purchase links and documentation are verifiable, to avoid misleading estimates.