Next-generation wireless networks will support a wide range of data rates over several frequency bands and require adaptive and programmable system resources. Radio transceivers used in these wireless networks will incorporate self-calibration and full programmability to support their high performance and adaptivity. Low power designs at the circuit architectural, and overall system levels will enable longer battery life for portable devices. Many additional challenges exist in implementing high data rate programmable orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) multiple-input/multiple-output (MIMO) radio transceivers that cover different frequency bands, maintain low current consumption, and are low cost. This article is an examination of the challenges in implementing high data rate programmable orthogonal frequency division multiplexing multiple-input/multiple-output radio transceivers that cover different frequency bands, maintain low current consumption, and are low cost.