@ste; hmm, I have to agree in a great deal with you. And any improvement is an improvement, no matter how small.
Actually in re-thinking; I was more thinking the technology would be for moving or mobile stations. But here the issue is still that when a device moves out of the range of the beam from the AP you have to bring it back much closer to the AP to get it connected again to make use of it again. I think this negative effect (and very irritating I tell you!) is mostly overlooked.
For fixed network WISP operators indeed your argument stands. I now also see your point. If due the 'beam' now you can sustain a one or two level higher MCS-rate your throughput could indeed increase noticeable, special if it also helps to create higher signal to noise levels.
(Preferably station should also do beam forming, special in PtP links. I'll guess in PtMP situations the stations are usually downloading more that uploading so the connection rate fm AP to Station bears more importance than the reverse. So now it would be OK if only AP has the feature...)
And for WISP it might also be a help to get problematic NLOS link to work (better)?
Actually I even see an option for a urbanized 'forest' where traditional wifi is hardly economic possible due the many tall trees and the dense AP network (mesh) you need to cover all houses.
Here beamforming might well help a lot to get as many as possible connected without too many AP's needed....
Ok, I'm over; we despirately need beam forming!