Wireless fidelity (WiFi) communication method and apparatus

Abstract

The application provides a wireless fidelity (WiFi) communication method and device, relates to the technical field of communication, and is used for reducing power consumption generated by a WiFi hotspot of a terminal device. The method comprises the following steps: an access point starts a WiFi hotspot; the access point selectively starts a WiFi low-power mode; in response to starting the WiFi low-power mode, the access point periodically broadcasts a low-power indication frame, wherein the low-power indication frame carries a low-power parameter, and the low-power parameter is used for indicating at least one discontinuous time period in a sleep state after the access point enters the WiFi low-power mode. In this way, the access point can reduce power consumption generated by the WiFi hotspot of the access point by starting the WiFi low-power mode.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a communication method and apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, most mobile phones support the Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) hotspot function. After a mobile phone (referred to as the access point) enables the WiFi hotspot function, other devices that support WiFi internet access (referred to as terminal devices) can connect to the network device through the WiFi hotspot enabled by the access point.

[0003] The process of a terminal device sending data to a network device via a WiFi hotspot is as follows: the terminal device sends data to the access point via the WiFi hotspot; after receiving the data, the access point forwards the data to the network device.

[0004] Since terminal devices may send data via WiFi hotspots at any time, access points need to keep the WiFi hotspot constantly active to receive data from terminal devices. However, keeping the WiFi hotspot constantly active will result in significant power consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a wireless fidelity WiFi communication method and apparatus, which solves the problem of high power consumption of WiFi hotspots after the access point is turned on in the prior art.

[0006] To solve the above problems, this application adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] In a first aspect, a wireless fidelity WiFi communication method is provided, comprising: an access point turning on a WiFi hotspot; the access point selectively turning on a WiFi low-power mode; in response to turning on the WiFi low-power mode, the access point periodically broadcasting a low-power indication frame, wherein the low-power indication frame carries low-power parameters, and the low-power parameters are used to indicate at least one non-continuous time period during which the access point is in a sleep state after entering the WiFi low-power mode.

[0008] Based on the above technical solution, by periodically broadcasting low-power indication frames, the access point can greatly increase the probability of the terminal device receiving the low-power indication frames, thereby reducing the situation where the terminal device cannot receive the low-power indication frames and sends data to the access point when the WiFi hotspot of the access point is in a dormant state, resulting in data packet loss.

[0009] Furthermore, the time periods during which an access point's WiFi hotspot is in a dormant state generally do not change frequently. Even if the terminal device does not receive a low-power indicator frame in the current cycle, the multiple time periods during which the access point's WiFi hotspot is in a dormant state can be determined based on the low-power indicator frame received in the previous cycle. This further reduces the probability of data packet loss for the terminal device.

[0010] In conjunction with the first aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: the access point selectively enabling WiFi low-power mode based on information from the terminal devices accessing the WiFi hotspot.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: when at least one terminal device is connected to a WiFi hotspot, the access point determines whether at least one terminal device supports WiFi Low Power Mode; if one or more terminal devices support WiFi Low Power Mode, the access point enables WiFi Low Power Mode.

[0012] Therefore, the access point selectively enables WiFi Low Power Mode based on the information of the terminal devices. When all terminal devices connected to the WiFi hotspot support WiFi Low Power Mode, enabling it reduces the power consumption of the WiFi hotspot. Conversely, if some terminal devices do not support WiFi Low Power Mode, the access point will not enable it to prevent data transmission from the terminal devices from failing to be received by the access point.

[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect above, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: the access point determining whether it receives a low-power support frame from each of the at least one terminal device, the low-power support frame being used to characterize that the terminal device supports WiFi low-power mode; if yes, the access point determines that all at least one terminal device supports WiFi low-power mode; if no, the access point determines that the at least one terminal device includes a terminal device that does not support WiFi low-power mode.

[0014] Based on this, terminal devices can send low-power support frames to the access point to indicate that the terminal device supports WiFi low-power mode. The access point can determine whether it supports WiFi low-power mode based on whether it receives low-power support frames from each terminal device.

[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: when the access point is in a state where a WiFi hotspot is turned on and no terminal device is connected to the WiFi hotspot, the access point turns on WiFi low power mode.

[0016] Based on this, the access point enables WiFi low power mode when no terminal device is connected to the WiFi hotspot, thereby reducing the power consumption generated by the WiFi hotspot.

[0017] In conjunction with the first aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: after the access point turns on the WiFi hotspot, if the access point does not receive an access request from a terminal device, then it is determined that the access point is in a state where the WiFi hotspot is turned on but no terminal device is accessing the WiFi hotspot.

[0018] In conjunction with the first aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: after one or more terminal devices connected to the WiFi hotspot have disconnected from the WiFi hotspot, determining that the access point is in a state where the WiFi hotspot is enabled but no terminal devices are connected to the WiFi hotspot.

[0019] Based on this, the access point can determine whether to turn on the WiFi hotspot when no terminal devices have connected yet, or when all terminal devices that were connected to the WiFi hotspot have disconnected from it.

[0020] In conjunction with the first aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: the access point generating forced activation information to force the WiFi Low Power Mode to be enabled; and in response to the forced activation information, the access point enabling the WiFi Low Power Mode.

[0021] Based on this, the access point can force the Wi-Fi low power mode to be enabled after determining the forced enable information, which is suitable for scenarios where it is necessary to prioritize reducing the power consumption of the Wi-Fi hotspot of the access point.

[0022] In conjunction with the first aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: the access point receiving a WiFi hotspot access request from a terminal device that is not connected to the WiFi hotspot; and in response to the WiFi hotspot access request, the access point disabling the WiFi low-power mode.

[0023] Therefore, when a terminal device requests to connect to a WiFi hotspot, the access point disables WiFi Low Power Mode. This ensures the access point remains in a receiving state throughout the process, improving the success rate of the terminal device connecting to the WiFi hotspot.

[0024] In conjunction with the first aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the duration of multiple non-contiguous time periods is determined based on the amount of data transmitted between the access point and the terminal device within a preset time period.

[0025] Based on this, the access point can indicate multiple long and non-continuous time periods when the WiFi hotspot transmits a large amount of data, in order to ensure the data transmission rate and latency.

[0026] Access points can indicate multiple short, non-continuous time periods when the amount of data transmitted by the WiFi hotspot is small, thereby reducing the power consumption of the WiFi hotspot.

[0027] In conjunction with the first aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: in response to the activation of WiFi Low Power Mode, the access point displays a first identifier on the user interface, the first identifier being used to indicate that WiFi Low Power Mode has been activated.

[0028] Based on this, the access point can indicate to the user that it has enabled WiFi Low Power Mode by displaying a first identifier.

[0029] In conjunction with the first aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the first identifier includes a first icon and a second icon, wherein the first icon is a WiFi hotspot icon and the second icon is a WiFi low-power mode icon.

[0030] Based on this, access points can indicate that WiFi Low Power Mode has been enabled by adding a WiFi Low Power Mode icon to the WiFi hotspot icon.

[0031] In conjunction with the first aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: disabling WiFi low-power mode at the access point.

[0032] Therefore, access points can ensure the normal operation of WiFi hotspots by disabling WiFi low-power mode.

[0033] In conjunction with the first aspect above, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: when WiFi Low Power Mode is off, the access point displays a second identifier, the second identifier being used to indicate that WiFi Low Power Mode is off.

[0034] Based on this, the access point can indicate to the user that it has turned off WiFi Low Power Mode by displaying a second identifier.

[0035] In conjunction with the first aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the second identifier includes a first icon, which is a WiFi hotspot icon.

[0036] Secondly, a communication method is provided, comprising: a terminal device sending a low-power support frame to an access point; the low-power support frame being used to characterize that the terminal device supports WiFi low-power mode; and the access point being an access point that has enabled WiFi hotspot.

[0037] The terminal device receives a low power indication frame periodically broadcast by the access point. The low power indication frame carries low power parameters, which are used to indicate at least one non-continuous period of time during which the access point is in a sleep state after entering WiFi low power mode.

[0038] During at least one non-continuous time period, the terminal device sends data to the access point via a WiFi hotspot.

[0039] Based on the above technical solution, the terminal device indicates its support for WiFi low-power mode by sending a low-power support frame to the access point. After the access point enables WiFi low-power mode, the terminal device does not send data to the access point when the WiFi hotspot is in sleep mode. The terminal device then sends data to the access point during periods outside of the access point's sleep mode. This avoids data packet loss caused by the access point not being able to receive the data sent by the terminal device.

[0040] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: the terminal device sending a WiFi hotspot access request to the access point.

[0041] Thirdly, a WiFi communication device is provided, characterized in that it includes: a WiFi chip processor and a WiFi chip transceiver; the WiFi chip processor is used to enable a WiFi hotspot;

[0042] The WiFi chip processor is also used to selectively enable WiFi low-power mode.

[0043] The WiFi chip processor is also used to respond to enabling WiFi low power mode by instructing the WiFi chip transceiver to periodically broadcast low power indication frames. The low power indication frames carry low power parameters, which are used to indicate at least one non-continuous period of time during which the access point is in a sleep state after entering WiFi low power mode.

[0044] In conjunction with the third aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the WiFi chip processor is specifically used to: selectively enable WiFi low-power mode based on information from terminal devices accessing the WiFi hotspot.

[0045] In conjunction with the third aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the WiFi chip processor is specifically used to: determine whether at least one terminal device supports WiFi Low Power Mode when at least one terminal device is connected to a WiFi hotspot; and enable WiFi Low Power Mode if one or more terminal devices support WiFi Low Power Mode.

[0046] In conjunction with the third aspect above, in one possible implementation, the WiFi chip processor is specifically configured to: determine whether a low-power support frame is received from each of the at least one terminal device, the low-power support frame being used to characterize that the terminal device supports WiFi low-power mode; if yes, then determine that at least one terminal device supports WiFi low-power mode; if no, then determine that at least one terminal device includes a terminal device that does not support WiFi low-power mode.

[0047] In conjunction with the third aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the WiFi chip processor is specifically used to: enable WiFi low-power mode when the WiFi communication device is in a state where the WiFi hotspot is turned on and no terminal device is connected to the WiFi hotspot.

[0048] In conjunction with the third aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the WiFi chip processor is further configured to: after turning on the WiFi hotspot, if no access request is received from a terminal device, determine that the WiFi communication device is in a state where the WiFi hotspot is turned on but no terminal device is accessing the WiFi hotspot.

[0049] In conjunction with the third aspect above, in one possible implementation, the WiFi chip processor is further configured to: determine that the WiFi communication device is in a state where the WiFi hotspot is turned on but no terminal device is connected to the WiFi hotspot after one or more terminal devices connected to the WiFi hotspot have disconnected from the WiFi hotspot.

[0050] In conjunction with the third aspect above, in one possible implementation, the WiFi chip processor is further configured to: acquire forced activation information generated by the WiFi communication device to force the WiFi low-power mode to be enabled; and enable the WiFi low-power mode in response to the forced activation information.

[0051] In conjunction with the third aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the WiFi chip processor is further configured to: receive a WiFi hotspot access request from a terminal device that is not connected to a WiFi hotspot; and, in response to the WiFi hotspot access request, disable the WiFi low-power mode.

[0052] In conjunction with the third aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the duration of multiple non-contiguous time periods is determined based on the amount of data transmitted between the access point and the terminal device within a preset time period.

[0053] In conjunction with the third aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the device further includes: a system-on-a-chip (SoC) chip processor and an SoC chip transceiver.

[0054] The SOC chip transceiver is used to receive WiFi low-power mode activation information.

[0055] The SOC chip processor, in response to the activation of WiFi Low Power Mode, displays a first identifier on the user interface, which indicates that WiFi Low Power Mode has been enabled.

[0056] In conjunction with the third aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the first identifier includes a first icon and a second icon, wherein the first icon is a WiFi hotspot icon and the second icon is a WiFi low power mode icon.

[0057] In conjunction with the third aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the WiFi chip processor is also used to: disable the WiFi low-power mode.

[0058] In conjunction with the third aspect above, in one possible implementation, the SOC chip processor is further configured to: display a second identifier on the user interface when WiFi Low Power Mode is off, the second identifier being used to indicate that WiFi Low Power Mode is off.

[0059] In conjunction with the third aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the second identifier includes a first icon, which is a WiFi hotspot icon.

[0060] Fourthly, a communication device is provided, characterized in that it includes: a transceiver and a processor; the transceiver is used to send a low-power mode indication frame to an access point; the low-power mode indication frame is used to indicate that a terminal device supports WiFi low-power mode; and the access point is an access point that enables WiFi hotspot.

[0061] The transceiver is also used to receive low-power indication frames periodically broadcast by the access point. The low-power indication frames carry low-power parameters. The low-power parameters are used to indicate at least one non-continuous period of time during which the access point is in a sleep state after entering WiFi low-power mode.

[0062] A processor for transmitting data from a terminal device to an access point via a WiFi hotspot during at least one non-continuous time period.

[0063] In conjunction with the fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the transceiver is also used for:

[0064] Send a WiFi hotspot access request to the access point.

[0065] Fifthly, a WiFi communication device is provided, characterized in that it includes: a WiFi chip processing unit and a WiFi chip communication unit; the WiFi chip processing unit is used to enable a WiFi hotspot;

[0066] The WiFi chip processing unit is also used to selectively enable WiFi low-power mode.

[0067] The WiFi chip processing unit is also used to respond to the activation of WiFi low power mode by instructing the WiFi chip communication unit to periodically broadcast low power indication frames. The low power indication frames carry low power parameters, which are used to indicate at least one non-continuous period of time during which the access point is in a sleep state after entering WiFi low power mode.

[0068] In conjunction with the fifth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the WiFi chip processing unit is specifically used to: selectively enable WiFi low-power mode based on information from terminal devices accessing the WiFi hotspot.

[0069] In conjunction with the fifth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the WiFi chip processing unit is specifically used to: determine whether at least one terminal device supports WiFi low power mode when at least one terminal device is connected to a WiFi hotspot; and enable WiFi low power mode if one or more terminal devices support WiFi low power mode.

[0070] In conjunction with the fifth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the WiFi chip processing unit is specifically configured to: determine whether a low-power support frame is received from each of the at least one terminal device, the low-power support frame being used to characterize that the terminal device supports WiFi low-power mode; if yes, then determine that at least one terminal device supports WiFi low-power mode; if no, then determine that at least one terminal device includes a terminal device that does not support WiFi low-power mode.

[0071] In conjunction with the fifth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the WiFi chip processing unit is specifically used to: enable WiFi low-power mode when the WiFi communication device is in a state where the WiFi hotspot is turned on and no terminal device is connected to the WiFi hotspot.

[0072] In conjunction with the fifth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the WiFi chip processing unit is further configured to: after turning on the WiFi hotspot, if no access request is received from a terminal device, determine that the WiFi communication device is in a state where the WiFi hotspot is turned on but no terminal device is accessing the WiFi hotspot.

[0073] In conjunction with the fifth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the WiFi chip processing unit is further configured to: determine that the WiFi communication device is in a state where the WiFi hotspot is turned on but no terminal device is connected to the WiFi hotspot after one or more terminal devices connected to the WiFi hotspot have disconnected from the WiFi hotspot.

[0074] In conjunction with the fifth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the WiFi chip processing unit is further configured to: acquire forced activation information generated by the WiFi communication device to force the WiFi low-power mode to be enabled; and enable the WiFi low-power mode in response to the forced activation information.

[0075] In conjunction with the fifth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the WiFi chip processing unit is further configured to: receive a WiFi hotspot access request from a terminal device that is not connected to a WiFi hotspot; and, in response to the WiFi hotspot access request, disable the WiFi low-power mode.

[0076] In conjunction with the fifth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the duration of multiple non-contiguous time periods is determined based on the amount of data transmitted between the access point and the terminal device within a preset time period.

[0077] In conjunction with the fifth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the device further includes: a system-on-a-chip (SoC) chip processing unit and an SoC chip communication unit.

[0078] The SOC chip's communication unit is used to receive WiFi low-power mode activation information.

[0079] The SOC chip processing unit is used to respond to the activation of WiFi Low Power Mode by displaying a first identifier on the user interface. The first identifier is used to indicate that WiFi Low Power Mode has been activated.

[0080] In conjunction with the fifth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the first identifier includes a first icon and a second icon, wherein the first icon is a WiFi hotspot icon and the second icon is a WiFi low power mode icon.

[0081] In conjunction with the fifth aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the WiFi chip processing unit is also used to: disable the WiFi low-power mode.

[0082] In conjunction with the fifth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the SOC chip processing unit is further configured to: display a second identifier on the user interface when the WiFi low power mode is off, the second identifier being used to indicate that the WiFi low power mode is off.

[0083] In conjunction with the fifth aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the second identifier includes a first icon, which is a WiFi hotspot icon.

[0084] A sixth aspect provides a communication device, characterized in that it includes: a transceiver and a processor; the transceiver is used to send a low-power mode indication frame to an access point; the low-power mode indication frame is used to indicate that a terminal device supports WiFi low-power mode; and the access point is an access point that enables WiFi hotspot.

[0085] The transceiver is also used to receive low-power indication frames periodically broadcast by the access point. The low-power indication frames carry low-power parameters. The low-power parameters are used to indicate at least one non-continuous period of time during which the access point is in a sleep state after entering WiFi low-power mode.

[0086] A processor for transmitting data from a terminal device to an access point via a WiFi hotspot during at least one non-continuous time period.

[0087] In conjunction with the sixth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the transceiver is also used for:

[0088] Send a WiFi hotspot access request to the access point.

[0089] In a seventh aspect, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium including a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the methods described in the first aspect and any possible implementation thereof.

[0090] Eighthly, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium including a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the methods described in the second aspect and any possible implementation thereof.

[0091] Ninthly, this application provides a computer program product containing instructions that, when run on a computer, cause the computer to perform the methods described in the first aspect and any possible implementation thereof.

[0092] In a tenth aspect, this application provides a computer program product containing instructions that, when run on a computer, cause the computer to perform the methods described in the second aspect and any possible implementation thereof.

[0093] Eleventhly, this application provides a communication system, including a first communication device and a second communication device. The first communication device is used to perform the method described in the first aspect and any possible implementation thereof; the second communication device is used to perform the method described in the second aspect and any possible implementation thereof.

[0094] It should be understood that the descriptions of technical features, technical solutions, beneficial effects, or similar language in this application do not imply that all features and advantages can be achieved in any single embodiment. Rather, it is understood that the description of a feature or beneficial effect means that a specific technical feature, technical solution, or beneficial effect is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the descriptions of technical features, technical solutions, or beneficial effects in this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the technical features, technical solutions, and beneficial effects described in this embodiment can be combined in any suitable manner. Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments can be implemented without one or more specific technical features, technical solutions, or beneficial effects of a particular embodiment. In other embodiments, additional technical features and beneficial effects may be identified in specific embodiments that do not embody all embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0095] Figure 1 A system architecture diagram of a communication system provided in this application embodiment;

[0096] Figure 2 This application provides a method for reducing the power consumption of a WiFi hotspot at an access point.

[0097] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0098] Figure 4 This application provides an example of an interaction diagram between an access point and a terminal device in WiFi Low Power Mode.

[0099] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating yet another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0100] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a first identifier provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0101] Figure 7 An interface diagram showing an access point displaying a first identifier is provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0102] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a second identifier provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0103] Figure 9 An interface diagram for displaying a second identifier at an access point is provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0104] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0105] Figure 11This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0106] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0107] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of a terminal device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0108] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of a network device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0109] In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, " / " means "or," for example, A / B can mean A or B. The "and / or" in this document is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, and B alone. Furthermore, "at least one" means one or more, and "multiple" means two or more. The terms "first," "second," etc., do not limit the quantity or order of execution, and "first," "second," etc., do not necessarily imply differences.

[0110] It should be noted that, in this application, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that something is being described as an example, illustration, or illustration. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design solutions. Specifically, the use of terms such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a concrete manner.

[0111] The communication systems described in this application include, but are not limited to, long-term evolution (LTE) systems, 5th-generation (5G) systems, new radio (NR) systems, wireless local area networks (WLAN) systems, and future evolution systems or a converged system of multiple communication technologies. Among these, a 4G system can also be referred to as an evolved packet system (EPS). The core network of a 4G system can be referred to as an evolved packet core (EPC), and the access network can be referred to as long-term evolution (LTE). The core network of a 5G system can be referred to as 5GC (5G core), and the access network can be referred to as new radio (NR). For ease of description, the following description uses an application to a 5G system as an example, but it is understood that this application is also applicable to 4G systems, 3rd generation (3G) systems, etc., and is not limited thereto. For example, the methods provided in this application embodiment can be specifically applied to evolved-universal terrestrial radio access network (E-UTRAN) and next-generation-radio access network (NG-RAN) systems.

[0112] The terminal device in this application embodiment is a user-side entity used to receive signals, or transmit signals, or both receive and transmit signals. The terminal device is used to provide users with one or more of voice services and data connectivity services. The terminal device may also be referred to as user equipment (UE), terminal, access terminal, user unit, user station, mobile station, remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, wireless communication device, user agent, or user device. The terminal device can be a vehicle-to-everything (V2X) device, such as a smart car, digital car, unmanned car, driverless car, pilotless car, or automobile, self-driving car, or autonomous car, pure electric vehicle (EV), hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), range-extended electric vehicle (REEV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), or new energy vehicle, etc. Terminal devices can also be device-to-device (D2D) devices, such as electricity meters and water meters. Terminal devices can also be mobile stations (MS), subscriber units, drones, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, stations (ST) in WLANs, cellular phones, smartphones, cordless phones, wireless data cards, tablets, session initiation protocol (SIP) phones, wireless local loop (WLL) stations, personal digital assistant (PDA) devices, laptop computers, machine type communication (MTC) terminals, handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities, computing devices or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem, in-vehicle devices, and wearable devices (also known as wearable smart devices).Terminal devices can also be used in next-generation communication systems, such as terminal devices in 5G systems, terminal devices in future evolved PLMNs, and terminal devices in NR systems.

[0113] like Figure 1 As shown, the communication method provided in this application embodiment can be applied to, for example... Figure 1 In the communication system 100 shown, such as Figure 1 As shown, the communication system 100 includes an access point 10 and one or more terminal devices 20. The access point 10 and the terminal devices 20 are connected via a wireless link through a WiFi hotspot.

[0114] Access point 10 is used to enable a WiFi hotspot and receive data sent by terminal device 20 via the WiFi hotspot. Access point 10 can also be used to forward data sent by terminal device 20 via the WiFi hotspot to network devices. In addition, access point 10 can also receive data from network devices and send data to terminal device 20 via the WiFi hotspot.

[0115] Terminal device 20 is used to establish a communication connection with access point 10 via WiFi hotspot, and to send data to access point 10 via WiFi hotspot, or to receive data from access point 10 via WiFi hotspot.

[0116] The above provides a brief overview of the application scenarios of this application.

[0117] Currently, with the reduction in mobile data traffic fees, there are more and more scenarios where users use terminal devices (referred to as access points) to turn on WiFi hotspots to share data traffic with other terminal devices (referred to as terminal devices).

[0118] For example, a user can turn on a WiFi hotspot using their mobile phone to provide data traffic for other mobile phones or laptops that are connected to the internet. These other mobile phones or laptops can then access the network using the data traffic from the phone that turned on the WiFi hotspot.

[0119] After the access point turns on the WiFi hotspot, the time it takes for a terminal device to access the access point via the WiFi hotspot and the time it takes for the terminal device to send data to the access point via the WiFi hotspot are not fixed. Therefore, the access point cannot determine the time it takes for a terminal device to access the access point via the WiFi hotspot or the time it takes for the terminal device to send data to the access point via the WiFi hotspot.

[0120] Therefore, the access point needs to continuously detect whether there is data being sent to it by a terminal device through the WiFi hotspot's wireless channel. This prevents data loss due to the access point's failure to receive data from the terminal device in a timely manner. When the access point is constantly detecting data through the WiFi hotspot's wireless channel, its power consumption will increase significantly.

[0121] Currently, in order to reduce the power consumption generated after an access point turns on a WiFi hotspot, a method for reducing WiFi hotspot power consumption has been provided, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the method includes:

[0122] Step a: The access point broadcasts a Self-clear to send (CTS) frame.

[0123] In one possible implementation, after the access point activates the WiFi hotspot, under certain conditions (e.g., the amount of data received from terminal devices via the WiFi hotspot within a preset time period is less than a preset amount of data), the access point generates a Self-CTS frame. Afterward, the access point broadcasts this Self-CTS frame.

[0124] The Self-CTS frame carries network allocation vector (NAV) indication information.

[0125] The NAV indication information is used to indicate a target time period. During this target time period, the access point's WiFi hotspot enters a sleep state. Terminal devices that receive this Self-CTS frame will not send data to the access point via the WiFi hotspot during the target time period.

[0126] In this context, the access point's WiFi hotspot entering sleep mode means that the access point is no longer detecting data on the WiFi hotspot's wireless channel. In this state, the power consumption of the access point's WiFi hotspot will be significantly reduced.

[0127] Step b: The terminal device receives a Self-CTS frame from the access point.

[0128] Specifically, after receiving a Self-CTS frame from the access point, the terminal device determines the sleep time of the access point's WiFi hotspot based on the NAV indication information in the first Self-CTS frame. During this time period, the terminal device does not send data to the access point through the WiFi hotspot.

[0129] In the above method, the access point can indicate the time for its WiFi hotspot to enter sleep mode by sending a Self-CTS frame to the terminal device. This allows the access point to instruct the WiFi hotspot to enter sleep mode during this period, thereby reducing the power consumption of the WiFi hotspot. Furthermore, the access point broadcasts the Self-CTS frame so that the terminal device, upon receiving the frame, can determine the time when the WiFi hotspot enters sleep mode. During this time, the terminal device does not send data to the access point via the WiFi hotspot.

[0130] However, the above method has the following problems:

[0131] 1. Self-CTS frames are transmitted on the public wireless channel of a WiFi hotspot. Therefore, these Self-CTS frames may be received by other terminal devices connected to a WiFi hotspot at another access point. The other access point is any device other than the access point that has enabled the WiFi hotspot. The other terminal devices are those connected to the WiFi hotspot at the other access point.

[0132] When another access point is located close to another access point, the two access points may share a public Wi-Fi channel. If this happens, the Self-CTS frames transmitted by the access point via the Wi-Fi hotspot on the public channel may be received by other devices. Upon receiving the Self-CTS frame, these other devices will refrain from sending data to the other access point for the period specified in the frame. This will prevent data transmission between the other access point and other devices, which would otherwise be able to transmit data normally via the Wi-Fi hotspot, from continuing.

[0133] 2. After the access point broadcasts a Self-CTS frame, it cannot confirm whether every terminal device has received it. If a terminal device fails to receive the Self-CTS frame, it may still send data to the access point via the Wi-Fi hotspot within the time period indicated by the frame. However, during this period, the access point has already instructed the Wi-Fi hotspot to enter sleep mode, and the access point will be unable to receive these data packets sent by the terminal devices, resulting in data packet loss.

[0134] In WiFi hotspot usage scenarios, the wireless channels used by WiFi hotspots are highly susceptible to interference, and there is a significant chance that Self-CTS frames will not be received by the terminal device. Therefore, the above method will result in a high probability of data packet loss for the terminal device.

[0135] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a communication method comprising: after an access point enables WiFi low-power mode, the access point periodically broadcasts low-power indication frames, which are used to indicate multiple time periods during which the access point's WiFi hotspot is in a sleep state.

[0136] By periodically broadcasting low-power indication frames, the access point can greatly increase the probability of the terminal device receiving the low-power indication frames, reduce the probability of the terminal device sending data to the access point when the WiFi hotspot of the access point is in a dormant state, and reduce the situation of data packet loss when the terminal device sends data to the access point.

[0137] Furthermore, the time periods during which the WiFi hotspot at the access point is in a dormant state do not change frequently. Even if the terminal device does not receive a low-power indication frame in the current cycle, it can still determine the multiple time periods during which the WiFi hotspot at the access point is in a dormant state based on the low-power indication frame received in the previous cycle. This further reduces the probability of data packet loss for the terminal device.

[0138] In addition, this application can also associate access points and terminal devices. The associated terminal devices can recognize low power indication frames, while terminal devices that are not associated with access points will not be able to recognize low power support frames.

[0139] Based on this, even if other terminal devices receive a low power indicator frame, they will not send data outside the time period indicated by the low power indicator frame because they are not associated with the access point and cannot recognize the low power indicator frame. This ensures that other terminal devices can still use the WiFi hotspot of another access point normally.

[0140] The method provided in this application embodiment can be applied to, for example, Figure 1 In the communication system shown, such as Figure 3 As shown, the communication method includes:

[0141] S300, access point enables WiFi hotspot.

[0142] WiFi hotspots are used for communication between access points and terminal devices.

[0143] S301, the access point selectively enables WiFi low power mode.

[0144] In WiFi Low Power Mode, the access point's WiFi hotspot remains in a sleep state for multiple non-continuous periods. While the WiFi hotspot is in a sleep state, the access point will not receive data from terminal devices through the WiFi hotspot.

[0145] In one possible implementation, after the access point enables WiFi, it determines whether the current conditions meet the requirements for enabling WiFi low-power mode.

[0146] If the conditions are met, the access point will select to enable WiFi Low Power Mode.

[0147] If the conditions are not met, the access point will select not to enable WiFi Low Power Mode.

[0148] S302. In response to enabling WiFi Low Power Mode, the access point periodically broadcasts low power indication frames. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the low power indication frames from the access point.

[0149] The low power indicator frame carries low power parameters, which are used to indicate at least one non-continuous period of time during which the access point is in a sleep state after entering WiFi low power mode.

[0150] In one possible implementation, the low-power indication frame is carried within a Beacon frame broadcast by the access point. The Beacon frame is a management frame specified in the WiFi protocol that the access point needs to send periodically. In this case, the period during which the access point broadcasts the low-power indication frame is the same as the period during which the access point sends Beacon frames.

[0151] It should be noted that the duration of the aforementioned non-contiguous time periods is related to the amount of data transmitted between the access point and the terminal device.

[0152] Specifically, when the amount of data transmitted between the access point and the terminal device is large, the duration of multiple non-contiguous time periods is relatively short. This allows the access point and the terminal device to use more time to transmit data via WiFi hotspot, thus meeting the demand for data transmission between the access point and the terminal device via WiFi hotspot.

[0153] When the amount of data transmitted between the access point and the terminal device is small, the duration of multiple non-contiguous time periods is short. This allows the access point and the terminal device to transmit data through the WiFi hotspot in a shorter amount of time, thereby reducing the power consumption generated by the WiFi hotspot of the access point.

[0154] S303. The terminal device determines to send data to the access point during a time period other than multiple non-contiguous time periods.

[0155] In one possible implementation, after receiving a Beacon frame broadcast by the access point, the terminal device parses the Beacon frame to determine the low-power indicator frame carried by the Beacon frame information. The terminal device then determines that the access point's WiFi hotspot is in a dormant state for multiple discontinuous time periods indicated by the low-power indicator frame.

[0156] During these discontinuous time periods, the terminal device does not send data to the access point via the WiFi hotspot to avoid data packet loss.

[0157] Outside of these discontinuous time periods, the access point's WiFi hotspot operates normally, and the terminal device normally sends data to the access point via the WiFi hotspot during these periods.

[0158] Based on the above technical solution, by periodically broadcasting low-power indication frames, the access point can greatly increase the probability of the terminal device receiving the low-power indication frames, reduce the probability of the terminal device sending data to the access point when the WiFi hotspot of the access point is in a dormant state, and reduce the loss of data packets sent by the terminal device to the access point.

[0159] Furthermore, the time periods during which the access point's WiFi hotspot is in a sleep state do not change frequently. Even if the terminal device does not receive a low-power indication frame in the current cycle, the multiple time periods during which the access point's WiFi hotspot is in a sleep state can be determined based on the low-power indication frame received in the previous cycle. This further reduces the probability of data packet loss for the terminal device.

[0160] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, the access point can selectively enable WiFi Low Power Mode according to the following three scenarios: Scenario a: The access point selectively enables WiFi Low Power Mode based on the information of the terminal devices accessing the WiFi hotspot; Scenario b: The access point selectively enables WiFi Low Power Mode based on the number of WiFi hotspots accessing the hotspot; Scenario c: The access point selectively enables WiFi Low Power Mode based on whether forced enable information is generated.

[0161] The following sections will provide detailed explanations of scenarios a, b, and c:

[0162] Scenario a: The access point selectively enables WiFi low power mode based on the information of the terminal devices connected to the WiFi hotspot.

[0163] In one possible implementation, the information of the aforementioned terminal device includes: whether the terminal device supports WiFi Low Power Mode.

[0164] Accordingly, if each terminal device connected to the WiFi hotspot supports WiFi Low Power Mode, the access point will select to enable WiFi Low Power Mode.

[0165] If any of the terminal devices accessing the WiFi hotspot do not support WiFi Low Power Mode, the access point will choose not to enable WiFi Low Power Mode.

[0166] Optionally, the access point can determine whether the terminal device supports WiFi Low Power Mode based on whether it receives a Low Power Support Frame from the terminal device. The Low Power Support Frame indicates that the terminal device supports WiFi Low Power Mode.

[0167] Specifically, when the access point receives a low-power support frame from each of the aforementioned terminal devices, it determines that each terminal device supports WiFi low-power mode. At this point, the access point enables WiFi low-power mode.

[0168] If the access point does not receive a low-power support frame from each of the aforementioned terminal devices, it determines that there is a terminal device that does not support WiFi low-power mode. In this case, the access point does not enable WiFi low-power mode.

[0169] In one possible implementation, the low-power support frame is carried within an Associate Request frame sent by the terminal device to the access point. The Associate Request frame is sent by the terminal device to the access point when it connects to the access point's WiFi hotspot.

[0170] Terminal device support for low-power WiFi hotspots means that the terminal device can recognize low-power indication frames sent by the access point and determine the time period during which the access point's WiFi hotspot is in a sleep state, as indicated by the low-power indication frame. During these time periods, the terminal device does not send data to the access point via the WiFi hotspot. Outside of these time periods, the terminal device can send data to the access point via the WiFi hotspot.

[0171] It should be noted that in scenario a, if the terminal device does not send a low-power support frame to the access point, it indicates that the terminal device does not support WiFi low-power mode. After receiving the low-power indication frame, the terminal device will be unable to recognize its content and therefore cannot determine when the access point's WiFi hotspot entered sleep mode. In this case, even if the access point's WiFi hotspot enters sleep mode, the terminal device may still send data to the access point via the WiFi hotspot. This will result in the loss of data packets sent by the terminal device.

[0172] Therefore, in scenario a, the access point can only enable WiFi Low Power Mode if it receives a Low Power Support Frame from each terminal device. If any terminal device fails to send a Low Power Support Frame to the access point, the access point will not enable WiFi Low Power Mode.

[0173] For example, in scenario a, there are three terminal devices accessing the WiFi hotspot: terminal device #1, terminal device #2, and terminal device #3. Terminal devices #1 and #2 support WiFi Low Power Mode, while terminal device #3 does not support WiFi Low Power Mode.

[0174] During the process of terminal devices #1 and #2 accessing the WiFi hotspot of the access point, the Associate Request frames sent by terminal devices #1 and #2 to the access point carry low-power support frames. Based on this, the access point determines that terminal devices #1 and #2 support WiFi low-power mode.

[0175] During the process of terminal device #3 accessing the WiFi hotspot of the access point, the Associate Request frame sent by terminal device #3 to the access point did not carry a low-power support frame. Based on this, the access point determined that terminal device #3 does not support WiFi low-power mode.

[0176] In this case, the access point will determine not to enable WiFi Low Power Mode.

[0177] Scenario b: The access point selectively enables WiFi low power mode based on the number of WiFi hotspots connected.

[0178] In one example, the access point enables WiFi Low Power Mode when no terminal devices are communicating with the access point via WiFi hotspots.

[0179] When a terminal device communicates with the access point via a WiFi hotspot, the access point determines whether to enable WiFi low-power mode based on the issuance described in scenario a above.

[0180] Among them, the scenario in which no terminal device communicates with the access point via a WiFi hotspot includes at least one of the following:

[0181] The access point has just turned on its WiFi hotspot, but the terminal devices have not yet connected to the access point's WiFi hotspot.

[0182] All terminal devices connected to the WiFi hotspot at the access point disconnected from the WiFi hotspot.

[0183] Specifically, after the access point turns on the WiFi hotspot, if the access point does not receive an access request from a terminal device, it is determined that the access point is in a state where the WiFi hotspot is turned on but no terminal device is accessing the WiFi hotspot.

[0184] Alternatively, after one or more terminal devices connected to the WiFi hotspot have disconnected from the WiFi hotspot, it is determined that the access point is in a state where the WiFi hotspot is enabled but no terminal devices are connected to the WiFi hotspot.

[0185] In scenario b, no terminal devices communicate with the access point via a WiFi hotspot, and the access point does not need to receive data from terminal devices through the WiFi hotspot. In this case, the access point can enable WiFi Low Power Mode to reduce the power consumption of the access point's WiFi hotspot.

[0186] Scenario c: The access point selectively enables WiFi low power mode based on whether a forced enable message is generated.

[0187] The forced enable message is used to instruct the access point to force the WiFi low power mode to be enabled.

[0188] Specifically, based on scenarios a and b above, it can be determined that the access point can decide whether to enable WiFi Low Power Mode based on whether all terminal devices support WiFi Low Power Mode or the number of terminal devices connected to the WiFi hotspot.

[0189] However, in some cases, even if the conditions for using the WiFi hotspot do not meet the conditions described in scenario a or scenario b above, the access point still needs to enable WiFi low power mode in order to reduce the power consumption generated by the WiFi hotspot.

[0190] For example, when the access point is in power-saving mode, in order to reduce the power consumption of the WiFi hotspot, the access point is forced to switch to WiFi low-power mode.

[0191] For example, if a user sends a command to the access point to force the WiFi hotspot to enter low-power mode, the access point will then need to force the WiFi to enter low-power mode.

[0192] In these cases, the access point generates a forced-on message and enables WiFi Low Power Mode based on the forced-on message.

[0193] It should be noted that the access point can generate forced activation information through the TCP / IP layer and layers above the TCP / IP layer, and then send the forced activation information to the WiFi chip, which will then enable the WiFi low power mode.

[0194] Based on the above technical solutions, this application provides three scenarios where access points need to enable WiFi Low Power Mode. Based on scenarios a and b, the access point can enable WiFi Low Power Mode while avoiding data packet loss from terminal devices, thereby reducing the power consumption of the access point's WiFi hotspot. Based on scenario c, the access point can forcibly enable WiFi Low Power Mode, prioritizing the reduction of power consumption generated by the access point's WiFi hotspot in certain scenarios.

[0195] In one possible implementation of S300, such as Figure 4 As shown, the low-power indication frame broadcast by the access point is used to indicate multiple non-contiguous time periods during which the access point's WiFi hotspot is in a dormant state in the first time period.

[0196] The access point divides the first time period that needs to be indicated into multiple consecutive second time periods, and further determines a third time period from each second time period. The third time period is one of multiple non-consecutive time periods when the access point's WiFi hotspot is in a dormant state.

[0197] The low-power indication frames indicate the start time of the first time period, which includes several second time periods, the duration of each second time period, and the duration of the third time period within each second time period.

[0198] The first time period includes two consecutive second time periods, the sum of which equals the length of the first time period. The third time period is a non-consecutive period, and its start time is the same as that of the second time period.

[0199] As an example, a Beacon frame carrying a low-power indication frame includes at least one of the following fields: Count field, Duration field, Interval field, and Start Time field. The following provides a detailed explanation of these four fields in conjunction with Table 1:

[0200] Table 1

[0201]

[0202] Specifically, the Interval field mentioned above is used to indicate Figure 4 The duration of the second time period shown in the figure, the Duration field is used to indicate Figure 4 The duration of the third time period shown in the figure, the Count field is used to indicate how many second time periods are included within a first time period, and the Start Time field is used to indicate the start time of the first time period.

[0203] One possible implementation is, such as Figure 5 As shown, after the access point turns on the WiFi hotspot, the access point determines whether to enable WiFi low-power mode, including the following steps: S500-S512. These are explained in detail below:

[0204] S500, access point enables WiFi hotspot.

[0205] S501, the access point enables WiFi low power mode.

[0206] It should be noted that after the WiFi hotspot is turned on at the access point, it takes a certain amount of time for the user's terminal device to initiate an access to the WiFi hotspot.

[0207] During this period, the access point's WiFi hotspot will not need to detect data sent by terminal devices through the WiFi hotspot. Therefore, after the access point turns on the WiFi hotspot, it can immediately switch to WiFi Low Power mode to reduce the power consumption generated by the WiFi hotspot during the period when terminal devices do not initiate access.

[0208] S502, the access point receives WiFi hotspot access requests.

[0209] A WiFi hotspot access request is a request sent by a terminal device to an access point to request access to a WiFi hotspot.

[0210] In one possible implementation, the WiFi hotspot access request is an authentication (AUTH) frame sent by the terminal device to the access point.

[0211] S503, Access point disables WiFi low power mode.

[0212] Specifically, after the access point receives a WiFi hotspot access request from a terminal device, the access point and the terminal device need to exchange signaling information via the WiFi hotspot to determine whether to allow the terminal device to access the access point's WiFi hotspot.

[0213] At this time, in order to ensure the success rate of terminal devices accessing WiFi hotspots and reduce the latency of terminal devices accessing WiFi hotspots, the access point disables WiFi low power mode to avoid the problem of terminal devices failing to access WiFi hotspots or having high latency when accessing WiFi hotspots due to the inability to conduct signaling interaction with terminal devices in sleep mode.

[0214] S504. The access point is associated with the terminal device.

[0215] The process of associating an access point with a terminal device is the process of the terminal device accessing the WiFi hotspot of the access point.

[0216] During the process of associating the access point with the terminal device, if the terminal device supports WiFi Low Power Mode, the terminal device will send a Low Power Support Frame to the access point.

[0217] S505. If the access point fails to associate with the terminal device, the access point will enable WiFi low power mode.

[0218] Specifically, if the access point fails to associate with the terminal device, there will still be no terminal device connected to the WiFi hotspot of the access point. In this case, the access point will enable WiFi low power mode to reduce the power consumption generated by the WiFi hotspot.

[0219] S506. If the access point is successfully associated with the terminal device, the access point determines whether the terminal device supports WiFi Low Power Mode.

[0220] Specifically, the access point can determine whether the terminal device supports WiFi Low Power Mode based on whether it receives a Low Power Support Frame from the terminal device.

[0221] S507. If the terminal device does not support WiFi Low Power Mode, the access point shall disable WiFi Low Power Mode.

[0222] This avoids the situation where, after the access point enables WiFi low power mode, the terminal device sends data to the access point while the WiFi hotspot is in sleep mode, which could lead to the loss of data packets from the terminal device.

[0223] S508. When the terminal device supports WiFi Low Power Mode, the access point enables WiFi Low Power Mode.

[0224] S509: The access point keeps WiFi low power mode enabled until it receives a new WiFi hotspot access request.

[0225] After this, the terminal device executes S502-S507 above to determine whether to enable WiFi low power mode.

[0226] In other words, when the access point is in WiFi Low Power Mode, if a new terminal device requests to access the WiFi hotspot, the access point will turn off WiFi Low Power Mode, associate with the new terminal device, and determine whether to turn WiFi Low Power Mode on based on the association result and whether the new terminal device supports WiFi Low Power Mode.

[0227] S510. If a terminal device disconnects from the WiFi hotspot of the access point, the access point determines whether a terminal device is connected to the WiFi hotspot.

[0228] After the access point confirms that a terminal device has disconnected from the WiFi hotspot, it determines whether to continue enabling WiFi low-power mode.

[0229] S511, If ​​so, the access point will remain in WiFi Low Power Mode.

[0230] S512. If not, the access point remains in WiFi Low Power Mode off.

[0231] In one possible implementation, the access point can display a first identifier when WiFi Low Power Mode is enabled. The first identifier indicates that WiFi Low Power Mode is enabled by the access point.

[0232] like Figure 6 The image shown is a schematic diagram of one type of first identifier. Figure 7 The image shows a schematic diagram of the interface displaying the first identifier for the access point. The first identifier includes a first icon and a second icon; the first icon is a WiFi hotspot icon, and the second icon is a WiFi low-power mode icon.

[0233] Specifically, after the WiFi chip at the access point executes one or more of the steps S500-S509 above, the WiFi chip determines whether to enable WiFi Low Power Mode. If the WiFi chip determines to enable WiFi Low Power Mode, it generates fourth indication information. The WiFi chip sends the fourth indication information to the SOC chip. The fourth indication information is used to instruct the access point to display the first identifier.

[0234] After receiving the fourth indication information, the SOC chip instructs the access point to display the first identifier.

[0235] In one example, the SOC chip calls the UI of the access point and displays the first identifier on the UI of the access point.

[0236] In another possible implementation, the access point can display a second identifier when WiFi Low Power Mode is disabled. This second identifier indicates that WiFi Low Power Mode is disabled by the access point.

[0237] like Figure 8 The image shown is a schematic diagram of one possible second identifier. Figure 9 The image shows a schematic diagram of the interface displaying the second identifier for the access point. The second identifier includes a first icon, which is a WiFi hotspot icon.

[0238] Specifically, after the WiFi chip at the access point executes one or more of the steps S500-S509 above, the WiFi chip determines whether to enable WiFi Low Power Mode. If the WiFi chip determines to disable WiFi Low Power Mode, it generates a fifth indication message. The WiFi chip sends the fifth indication message to the SOC chip. The fifth indication message is used to instruct the access point to display the second identifier.

[0239] After receiving the fifth instruction information, the SOC chip instructs the access point to display the second identifier.

[0240] In one example, the SOC chip invokes the UI of the access point and displays a second identifier on the UI of the access point.

[0241] Based on the above technical solution, the access point can display a corresponding indicator on the UI interface based on whether WiFi Low Power Mode is enabled. This allows users to intuitively determine the WiFi hotspot status of the access point based on the displayed indicator.

[0242] The various solutions in the above embodiments of this application can be combined without contradiction.

[0243] The above mainly describes the solutions of the embodiments of this application from the perspective of interaction between various network elements. It is understood that each network element, such as access points and terminal devices, includes at least one of the hardware structures and software modules corresponding to the execution of each function in order to achieve the above functions. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, in conjunction with the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in the embodiments disclosed herein, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed in hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0244] This application embodiment can divide the access point and terminal device into functional units according to the above method example. For example, each function can be divided into a separate functional unit, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit. It should be noted that the unit division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods.

[0245] When using integrated units, Figure 10A possible structural schematic diagram of the communication device (referred to as communication device 100) involved in the above embodiments is shown. The communication device 100 includes a processing unit 1001 and a communication unit 1002, and may also include a storage unit 1003. Figure 10 The structural diagram shown can be used to illustrate the structure of the access point and terminal equipment involved in the above embodiments.

[0246] when Figure 10 The schematic diagram shown illustrates the structure of the access point involved in the above embodiments. The processing unit 1001 is used to control and manage the actions of the access point, for example, controlling the access point to perform... Figure 3 S300-S303 in the middle, Figure 5 The actions performed by the access point in processes S500-S512 and / or other processes described in the embodiments of this application. The processing unit 1001 can communicate with other network entities via the communication unit 1002, for example, with... Figure 1 The access point communication is shown in the diagram. Storage unit 1003 is used to store the access point's program code and data.

[0247] when Figure 10 When the schematic diagram shown is used to illustrate the structure of the access point involved in the above embodiments, the communication device 100 can be the access point or a chip within the access point.

[0248] when Figure 10 The schematic diagram shown illustrates the structure of the terminal device involved in the above embodiments. The processing unit 1001 is used to control and manage the actions of the terminal device, for example, controlling the terminal device to perform... Figure 3 S301 and S302 in the middle, Figure 5 The actions performed by the terminal device in processes S502, S504, S509, and / or other processes described in the embodiments of this application. The processing unit 1001 can communicate with other network entities via the communication unit 1002, for example, with... Figure 1 The terminal device communication shown in the figure. The storage unit 1003 is used to store the program code and data of the terminal device.

[0249] when Figure 10 When the schematic diagram shown is used to illustrate the structure of the terminal device involved in the above embodiments, the communication device 100 can be the terminal device or a chip within the terminal device.

[0250] When the communication device 100 is a terminal device or access point, the processing unit 1001 can be a processor or controller, and the communication unit 1002 can be a communication interface, transceiver, transceiver circuit, transceiver device, etc. The term "communication interface" is a general term and may include one or more interfaces. The storage unit 1003 can be a memory. When the communication device 100 is a chip within the terminal device or access point, the processing unit 1001 can be a processor or controller, and the communication unit 1002 can be an input interface and / or output interface, pins, or circuits, etc. The storage unit 1003 can be a storage unit within the chip (e.g., a register, cache, etc.), or it can be a storage unit located outside the chip within the terminal device or access point (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM, etc.).

[0251] The communication unit can also be called a transceiver unit. The antenna and control circuit with transceiver functions in the communication device 100 can be considered as the communication unit 1002 of the communication device 100, and the processor with processing functions can be considered as the processing unit 1001 of the communication device 100. Optionally, the device in the communication unit 1002 used to implement the receiving function can be considered as a receiving unit. The receiving unit is used to execute the receiving steps in the embodiments of this application, and the receiving unit can be a receiver, a receiver receiver, a receiving circuit, etc.

[0252] Figure 10 If the integrated units in the process are implemented as software functional modules and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, in essence, or the parts that contribute to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solutions, can be embodied in the form of software products. These computer software products are stored in a storage medium and include several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) or processor to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. Storage media for storing computer software products include various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory, random access memory, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0253] Figure 10 The units in the process can also be called modules; for example, a processing unit can be called a processing module.

[0254] This application also provides a hardware structure diagram of a communication device (denoted as communication device 110), see [link to diagram]. Figure 11 or Figure 12The communication device 110 includes a processor 1101, and optionally, a memory 1102 connected to the processor 1101.

[0255] In the first possible implementation, see Figure 11 The communication device 110 further includes a transceiver 1103. The processor 1101, memory 1102, and transceiver 1103 are connected via a bus. The transceiver 1103 is used to communicate with other devices or communication networks. Optionally, the transceiver 1103 may include a transmitter and a receiver. The device in the transceiver 1103 that implements the receiving function can be considered as a receiver, which is used to perform the receiving steps in the embodiments of this application. The device in the transceiver 1103 that implements the transmitting function can be considered as a transmitter, which is used to perform the transmitting steps in the embodiments of this application.

[0256] Based on the first possible implementation method Figure 11 The structural diagram shown can be used to illustrate the structure of the access point or terminal device involved in the above embodiments.

[0257] when Figure 11 The schematic diagram shown illustrates the structure of the access point involved in the above embodiments. The processor 1101 is used to control and manage the actions of the access point; for example, the processor 1101 is used to support the access point in performing... Figure 3 S300-S303 in the middle, Figure 5 The actions performed by the access point in S500-S512 and / or other processes described in the embodiments of this application. The processor 1101 can communicate with other network entities via the transceiver 1103, for example, with... Figure 1 The terminal device communication shown in the figure. Memory 1102 is used to store the access point's program code and data.

[0258] when Figure 11 The schematic diagram shown illustrates the structure of the terminal device involved in the above embodiments. The processor 1101 is used to control and manage the actions of the terminal device. For example, the processor 1101 is used to support the terminal device in performing... Figure 3 S301 and S302 in the middle, Figure 5 The actions performed by the terminal device in processes S502, S504, S509, and / or other processes described in the embodiments of this application. The processor 1101 can communicate with other network entities via the transceiver 1103, for example, with... Figure 1 The access point communication is shown in the diagram. Memory 1102 is used to store the program code and data of the terminal device.

[0259] In a second possible implementation, the processor 1101 includes logic circuitry and at least one of an input interface and an output interface. The output interface is used to perform the sending action in the corresponding method, and the input interface is used to perform the receiving action in the corresponding method.

[0260] Based on the second possible implementation, see Figure 12 , Figure 12 The structural diagram shown can be used to illustrate the structure of the access point or terminal device involved in the above embodiments.

[0261] when Figure 12 The schematic diagram shown illustrates the structure of the access point involved in the above embodiments. The processor 1101 is used to control and manage the actions of the access point; for example, the processor 1101 is used to support the access point in performing... Figure 3 S300-S303 in the middle, Figure 5 The actions performed by the access point in S500-S512 and / or other processes described in the embodiments of this application. The processor 1101 can communicate with other network entities through at least one of the input and output interfaces, for example, with... Figure 1 The terminal device communication shown in the figure. Memory 1102 is used to store the access point's program code and data.

[0262] when Figure 12 The schematic diagram shown illustrates the structure of the terminal device involved in the above embodiments. The processor 1101 is used to control and manage the actions of the terminal device. For example, the processor 1101 is used to support the terminal device in performing... Figure 3 S301 and S302 in the middle, Figure 5 The actions performed by the terminal device in processes S502, S504, S509, and / or other processes described in the embodiments of this application. The processor 1101 can communicate with other network entities through at least one of the input and output interfaces, for example, with... Figure 1 The access point communication is shown in the diagram. Memory 1102 is used to store the program code and data of the terminal device.

[0263] in, Figure 11 and Figure 12 This can also be illustrated by the system chip in the terminal device. In this case, the actions performed by the terminal device can be implemented by the system chip. The specific actions performed can be found above and will not be repeated here. Figure 11 and Figure 12 Alternatively, the system chip within the access point can be illustrated. In this case, the actions performed by the aforementioned access point can be implemented by this system chip; the specific actions performed are detailed above and will not be repeated here.

[0264] In addition, this application embodiment also provides a hardware structure diagram of a terminal device (denoted as terminal device 130) and a network device (denoted as network device 140), which can be referred to separately for details. Figure 13 and Figure 14 .

[0265] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of terminal device 130. For ease of explanation, Figure 13 Only the main components of the terminal device are shown. For example... Figure 13 As shown, the terminal device 130 includes a processor, a memory, a control circuit, an antenna, and input / output devices.

[0266] The processor is primarily used for processing communication protocols and data, controlling the entire terminal device, executing software programs, and processing their data; for example, controlling the access point to execute... Figure 3 S300-S303 in the middle, Figure 5 The actions performed by the access point in S500-S512 and / or other processes described in the embodiments of this application. For example, controlling the terminal device to perform... Figure 3 S301 and S302 in the middle, Figure 5 The actions performed by the terminal device in processes S502, S504, S509, and / or other processes described in the embodiments of this application. The memory is mainly used to store software programs and data. The control circuit (also called the radio frequency circuit) is mainly used for the conversion between baseband signals and radio frequency signals, and for processing radio frequency signals. The control circuit and antenna together can also be called a transceiver, mainly used for transmitting and receiving radio frequency signals in the form of electromagnetic waves. Input / output devices, such as touch screens, displays, and keyboards, are mainly used to receive user input data and output data to the user.

[0267] When the terminal device is powered on, the processor can read the software program from the memory, interpret and execute the instructions of the software program, and process the data of the software program. When data needs to be transmitted via the antenna, the processor performs baseband processing on the data to be transmitted and outputs the baseband signal to the control circuit in the control circuit. The control circuit performs radio frequency processing on the baseband signal and transmits the radio frequency signal outward in the form of electromagnetic waves through the antenna. When data is sent to the terminal device, the control circuit receives the radio frequency signal through the antenna, converts the radio frequency signal into a baseband signal, and outputs the baseband signal to the processor. The processor converts the baseband signal into data and processes the data.

[0268] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for ease of explanation, Figure 13 Only one memory and processor are shown. In actual terminal devices, multiple processors and memories may exist. Memory can also be called storage medium or storage device, etc., and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0269] As an optional implementation, the processor may include a baseband processor and a central processing unit (CPU). The baseband processor is mainly used to process communication protocols and communication data, while the CPU is mainly used to control the entire terminal device, execute software programs, and process the data of the software programs. Figure 13 The processor integrates the functions of a baseband processor and a central processing unit (CPU). Those skilled in the art will understand that the baseband processor and CPU can also be independent processors interconnected via technologies such as buses. It will also be understood that a terminal device can include multiple baseband processors to adapt to different network standards, and multiple CPUs to enhance its processing capabilities. The various components of the terminal device can be connected via various buses. The baseband processor can also be described as a baseband processing circuit or a baseband processing chip. Similarly, the CPU can be described as a central processing circuit or a central processing chip. The function of processing communication protocols and communication data can be built into the processor or stored in memory as a software program, with the processor executing the software program to implement the baseband processing function.

[0270] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of network device 140. Network device 140 may include one or more radio frequency units, such as a remote radio unit (RRU) 1401 and one or more baseband units (BBU) (also known as digital units (DU)) 1402.

[0271] The RRU1401 can be referred to as a transceiver unit, transceiver, transceiver circuit, or transceiver, etc., and may include at least one antenna 1411 and a radio frequency unit 1412. The RRU1401 is mainly used for transmitting and receiving radio frequency signals and converting radio frequency signals to baseband signals. The RRU1401 and BBU1402 can be physically installed together or physically separated, for example, in a distributed base station.

[0272] The BBU1402 is the control center of the network equipment, also known as the processing unit. It is mainly used to complete baseband processing functions, such as channel coding, multiplexing, modulation, spreading, etc.

[0273] In one embodiment, the BBU1402 can be composed of one or more boards. These boards can collectively support a single access standard wireless access network (such as an LTE network), or they can each support different access standards wireless access networks (such as LTE, 5G, or other networks). The BBU1402 also includes a memory 1421 and a processor 1422. The memory 1421 stores necessary instructions and data. The processor 1422 controls the network device to perform necessary actions. The memory 1421 and processor 1422 can serve one or more boards. That is, each board can have its own memory and processor, or multiple boards can share the same memory and processor. Furthermore, each board can also have necessary circuitry.

[0274] It should be understood that Figure 14 The network device 140 shown in this embodiment performs the actions described above. The operations and functions of each module in network device 140, or vice versa, are respectively configured to implement the corresponding processes in the above method embodiments. For details, please refer to the descriptions in the above method embodiments; to avoid repetition, detailed descriptions are appropriately omitted here.

[0275] In implementation, each step of the method provided in this embodiment can be completed by integrated logic circuits in the processor hardware or by instructions in software. The steps of the method disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly manifested as being executed by a hardware processor, or being executed by a combination of hardware and software modules in the processor.

[0276] The processor in this application may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a microcontroller unit (MCU), or an artificial intelligence processor, etc., and other computing devices that run software. Each computing device may include one or more cores for executing software instructions to perform calculations or processing. The processor may be a standalone semiconductor chip or integrated with other circuits into a single semiconductor chip. For example, it may form a System-on-a-Chip (SoC) with other circuits (such as encoding / decoding circuits, hardware acceleration circuits, or various bus and interface circuits), or it may be integrated as a built-in processor within an ASIC. The ASIC with the integrated processor may be packaged separately or together with other circuits. In addition to the cores for executing software instructions to perform calculations or processing, the processor may further include necessary hardware accelerators, such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), or logic circuits that implement dedicated logic operations.

[0277] The memory in the embodiments of this application may include at least one of the following types: read-only memory (ROM) or other types of static storage devices capable of storing static information and instructions; random access memory (RAM) or other types of dynamic storage devices capable of storing information and instructions; or electrically erasable programmable-only memory (EEPROM). In some scenarios, the memory may also be a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or other optical disc storage, optical disc storage (including compressed optical discs, laser discs, optical discs, digital universal optical discs, Blu-ray discs, etc.), magnetic disk storage media, or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and accessible by a computer, but is not limited thereto.

[0278] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium including instructions that, when run on a computer, cause the computer to perform any of the methods described above.

[0279] This application also provides a computer program product containing instructions that, when run on a computer, cause the computer to perform any of the methods described above.

[0280] This application also provides a communication system, including the aforementioned access point and terminal device.

[0281] This application also provides a chip including a processor and an interface circuit. The interface circuit is coupled to the processor. The processor is used to run computer programs or instructions to implement the above-described method. The interface circuit is used to communicate with other modules outside the chip.

[0282] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved, in whole or in part, through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software programs, implementation can be, in whole or in part, in the form of a computer program product. This computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer or a data storage device containing one or more servers, data centers, etc., that can be integrated with the medium. The available media can be magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., DVDs), or semiconductor media (e.g., solid-state disks, SSDs).

[0283] Although this application has been described herein in conjunction with various embodiments, those skilled in the art, by reviewing the accompanying drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, will understand and implement other variations of the disclosed embodiments in carrying out the claimed application. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other components or steps, and "a" or "an" does not exclude multiple instances. A single processor or other unit can implement several functions listed in the claims. While different dependent claims may recite certain measures, this does not mean that these measures cannot be combined to produce good results.

[0284] Although this application has been described in conjunction with specific features and embodiments, it is obvious that various modifications and combinations can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Accordingly, this specification and drawings are merely exemplary illustrations of this application as defined by the appended claims, and are considered to cover any and all modifications, variations, combinations, or equivalents within the scope of this application. Clearly, those skilled in the art can make various alterations and modifications to this application without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Thus, if such modifications and modifications of this application fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application is also intended to include such modifications and modifications.

[0285] Finally, it should be noted that the above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A wireless fidelity WiFi communication method, characterized in that, include: The access point enables a WiFi hotspot; The access point selectively enables WiFi low power mode; In response to enabling the WiFi low power mode, the access point periodically broadcasts a low power indication frame, wherein the low power indication frame carries a low power parameter, which is used to indicate at least one non-continuous time period during which the access point is in a sleep state after entering the WiFi low power mode. The access point selectively enables WiFi low-power mode, including: The access point selectively enables WiFi low-power mode based on the information of the terminal devices accessing the WiFi hotspot. The access point selectively enables WiFi low-power mode based on information about the terminal devices accessing the WiFi hotspot, including: When at least one terminal device is connected to the WiFi hotspot, the access point determines whether the at least one terminal device supports WiFi Low Power Mode. If all at least one terminal device supports the WiFi Low Power Mode, then the access point enables the WiFi Low Power Mode.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The access point determines whether the at least one terminal device supports WiFi Low Power Mode, including: The access point determines whether it receives a low-power support frame from each of the at least one terminal device, the low-power support frame being used to characterize that the terminal device supports WiFi low-power mode. If so, the access point determines that at least one terminal device supports WiFi Low Power Mode. If not, the access point determines that the at least one terminal device includes a terminal device that does not support WiFi Low Power Mode.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The access point selectively enables WiFi low-power mode, including: When the access point is in a state where the WiFi hotspot is turned on and no terminal device is connected to the WiFi hotspot, the access point turns on the WiFi low power mode.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: After the access point turns on the WiFi hotspot, if the access point does not receive an access request from a terminal device, it is determined that the access point is in a state where the WiFi hotspot is turned on but no terminal device is accessing the WiFi hotspot.

5. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: After one or more terminal devices connected to the WiFi hotspot disconnect from the WiFi hotspot, it is determined that the access point is in a state where the WiFi hotspot is turned on but no terminal device is connected to the WiFi hotspot.

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The access point selectively enables WiFi low-power mode, including: The access point generates forced activation information to enable WiFi low power mode; In response to the forced activation information, the access point activates the WiFi low-power mode.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, After the access point enables WiFi Low Power Mode, the method further includes: The access point receives WiFi hotspot access requests from terminal devices that are not connected to the WiFi hotspot; In response to the WiFi hotspot access request, the access point disables the WiFi low-power mode.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The duration of the multiple non-contiguous time periods is determined based on the amount of data transmitted between the access point and the terminal device within the preset time period.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, Also includes: In response to the activation of the WiFi Low Power Mode, the access point displays a first identifier on the user interface, which indicates that the WiFi Low Power Mode has been activated.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first identifier includes a first icon and a second icon, wherein the first icon is a WiFi hotspot icon and the second icon is a WiFi low power mode icon.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, After the access point enables WiFi Low Power Mode, the method further includes: The access point disables the WiFi low-power mode.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, Also includes: When the WiFi Low Power Mode is off, the access point displays a second identifier, which indicates that the WiFi Low Power Mode is off.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The second identifier includes a first icon, which is a WiFi hotspot icon.

14. A wireless fidelity WiFi communication method, characterized in that, include: When a terminal device connects to a WiFi hotspot, the terminal device sends a low-power support frame to the access point. The low-power support frame is used to indicate that the terminal device supports WiFi low-power mode. The access point is the one that enables a WiFi hotspot; The terminal device receives a low power indication frame periodically broadcast by the access point, wherein the low power indication frame carries a low power parameter, and the low power parameter is used to indicate at least one non-continuous time period during which the access point is in a sleep state after entering the WiFi low power mode. During a time period other than the at least one non-continuous time period, the terminal device sends data to the access point via the WiFi hotspot.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The method further includes: The terminal device sends a WiFi hotspot access request to the access point.

16. A wireless fidelity WiFi communication device, characterized in that, include: WiFi chip processor and WiFi chip transceiver; the WiFi chip processor is used to enable WiFi hotspot; The WiFi chip processor is also used to selectively enable WiFi low-power mode. The WiFi chip processor is further configured to, in response to enabling the WiFi low-power mode, instruct the WiFi chip transceiver to periodically broadcast a low-power indication frame, wherein the low-power indication frame carries a low-power parameter, the low-power parameter being used to indicate at least one discontinuous period of time during which the device is in a sleep state after entering the WiFi low-power mode; the WiFi chip processor is specifically configured to: Based on information from terminal devices accessing the WiFi hotspot, selectively enable WiFi low-power mode; the WiFi chip processor is specifically used for: When at least one terminal device is connected to the WiFi hotspot, determine whether the at least one terminal device supports WiFi low power mode; If all at least one terminal device supports the WiFi Low Power Mode, then the WiFi Low Power Mode is enabled.

17. The apparatus according to claim 16, characterized in that, The WiFi chip processor is specifically used for: Determine whether a low-power support frame is received from each of the at least one terminal device, the low-power support frame being used to characterize that the terminal device supports WiFi low-power mode; If so, then it is determined that at least one terminal device supports WiFi Low Power Mode; If not, then it is determined that the at least one terminal device includes a terminal device that does not support WiFi Low Power Mode.

18. The apparatus according to claim 16, characterized in that, The WiFi chip processor is specifically used for: When the WiFi communication device is in a state where the WiFi hotspot is turned on and no terminal device is connected to the WiFi hotspot, the WiFi low power mode is turned on.

19. The apparatus according to claim 18, characterized in that, The WiFi chip processor is also used for: If no access request is received from a terminal device after the WiFi hotspot is turned on, it is determined that the WiFi communication device is in a state where the WiFi hotspot is turned on but no terminal device is connected to the WiFi hotspot.

20. The apparatus according to claim 18, characterized in that, The WiFi chip processor is also used for: After one or more terminal devices connected to the WiFi hotspot disconnect from the WiFi hotspot, it is determined that the WiFi communication device is in a state where the WiFi hotspot is turned on and no terminal device is connected to the WiFi hotspot.

21. The apparatus according to claim 16, characterized in that, The WiFi chip processor is also used for: Obtain the forced activation information for the forced activation of WiFi low power mode generated by the WiFi communication device; In response to the forced activation information, the WiFi low power mode is activated.

22. The apparatus according to any one of claims 16-21, characterized in that, The WiFi chip processor is also used for: Receive WiFi hotspot access requests from terminal devices that are not connected to the WiFi hotspot; In response to the WiFi hotspot access request, the WiFi low-power mode is turned off.

23. The apparatus according to any one of claims 16-21, characterized in that, The duration of the multiple non-contiguous time periods is determined based on the amount of data transmitted between the device and the terminal equipment within the preset time period.

24. The apparatus according to any one of claims 16-21, characterized in that, The device further includes: a system-on-a-chip (SoC) processor and an SoC transceiver; The SOC chip transceiver is used to receive WiFi low power mode activation information; The SOC chip processor is configured to display a first identifier on the user interface in response to the activation of the WiFi low-power mode. The first identifier is used to indicate that the WiFi low-power mode has been activated.

25. The apparatus according to claim 24, characterized in that, The first identifier includes a first icon and a second icon, wherein the first icon is a WiFi hotspot icon and the second icon is a WiFi low power mode icon.

26. The apparatus according to any one of claims 16-21, characterized in that, The WiFi chip processor is also used for: Turn off the WiFi low power mode.

27. The apparatus according to claim 26, characterized in that, The device further includes: a SOC chip processor, which is also used for: When the WiFi Low Power Mode is turned off, a second identifier is displayed on the user interface, which indicates that the WiFi Low Power Mode has been turned off.

28. The apparatus according to claim 27, characterized in that, The second identifier includes a first icon, which is a WiFi hotspot icon.

29. A communication device, characterized in that, include: Transceiver and processor; The transceiver is used to send a low-power mode support frame to the access point when the device connects to a WiFi hotspot. The low-power mode support frame is used to indicate that the terminal device supports WiFi low-power mode; the access point is an access point that enables WiFi hotspot. The transceiver is also configured to receive low-power indication frames periodically broadcast by the access point, the low-power indication frames carrying low-power parameters; the low-power parameters are used to indicate at least one non-continuous time period during which the access point is in a sleep state after entering WiFi low-power mode. The processor is configured to send data from the terminal device to the access point via the WiFi hotspot during a time period other than the at least one non-continuous time period.

30. The apparatus according to claim 29, characterized in that, The transceiver is also used for: Send a WiFi hotspot access request to the access point.

31. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium includes a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 1-13, or cause the computer to perform the method as claimed in claim 14 or 15.

32. A computer program product, characterized in that, When it is run on a computer, it causes the computer to perform the method of any one of claims 1-13, or causes the computer to perform the method of claim 14 or 15.

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