Data transfer via mobile phone is getting faster and faster. The new 5G network has not even been fully built yet, and the industry is already developing its successor. Satellites will also play a role in this.
The expansion of the new 5G mobile network is now progressing. Depending on which provider you ask, 80, 90 or almost 100 percent coverage is promised. However, this refers to the population that is reached. If you were to look at the area, the percentages would be much lower.
5G is best known as a mobile phone network – that is, for high speeds and shorter response times when you are on the move. However, 5G can also help at home.
When mobile communications do more than the fixed network
“In some areas, the mobile phone speed will even be better than what you get over the landline, ie over DSL or cable,” says Sebastian Luther from the company AVM. At the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, the manufacturer is presenting a box that is designed to receive the fast mobile phone network and convert it into an Internet signal for the PC or TV at home. The promise: an Internet speed of 1.3 gigabits.
However, no mobile network operator has yet been able to deliver 1.3 gigabits. In the best case scenario, just under half of that, ie around 600 megabits, is achieved. But even that would be more than most landline connections can manage.
A hundred times faster
The fact that 5G is advancing so quickly is not only beneficial for private customers, but also for industry. They need a reliable data stream, as Abdurazak Mudesir, Telekom’s Managing Director for Technology, explains using the use of robots as an example: “What you don’t want is for the robot to suddenly stop working because too many people are surfing the net. To avoid that, you need a dedicated network, and that’s what you can offer with the so-called slicing solution.”
“Slicing” means that parts of the mobile network are separated and reserved so that, for example, the robot in the company does not fail when employees watch videos on their cell phones during their break.
In order to get such problems even better under control, the telecom industry is already thinking about the next network generation: 6G is expected to be 100 times faster.
Artificial intelligence on the internet
Thilo Heckmann, responsible for new technologies at Telefonica Deutschland, speaks of an intelligent network that can manage its own capacity – something that has not yet really worked with existing networks. If, for example, you want to open a video conference in the future, with the 6G standard “the application will talk to the network: Do you have the resources available?” If that is the case, network capacity will be reserved. “This requires that artificial intelligence is introduced into the networks as a control element.”
In addition, 6G needs much smaller radio cells than previous networks to achieve high data speeds. However, since there is no desire to set up a cell phone tower every ten meters, the signals will often be sent via satellite.
However, 6G is still a thing of the future. It is not expected to start until 2030 at the earliest.
Conceive the start of a new era of connectivity that has the potential to transform the operations of your business, all thanks to the emergence of 6G technology. Just as you have adjusted to current digital trends, 6G technology comes with the promise of not only faster internet but a complete transformation of what we consider as digital innovation. This leap into the future is not just an upgrade in speed but an opportunity to explore how ultra-fast connectivity can revolutionize every aspect of business innovation.
The debut of 6G is a gateway to redefining business operations, enabling instant communication, and facilitating advancements in artificial intelligence, IoT, and more. From improving customer experiences to streamlining operational processes, 6G technology is set to pave the way for your future business success.
Expanding on this vision of transformative connectivity, a report from McKinsey underscores that 6G technology has the potential to ignite innovation, attract more investments, increase adoption, and rejuvenate the telecommunications sector.
Some reports also suggest that the 6G market for the “hyper connected” future is projected to reach trillions of dollars, emphasizing its crucial role in propelling not only technological advancements but also substantial economic growth.
If you are a business anticipating the digital transformation of your enterprise and the potential of 6G for digital evolution, our blog will provide insights into the benefits and various use cases of embracing 6G wireless technology. So, without further delay, let’s delve into the specifics.
What Is 6G Technology and How Is It Influencing Digital Evolution?
6G technology can be described as a network that operates in previously unused radio frequencies and utilizes cognitive technologies such as AI, IoT, etc., to enable high-speed, low-latency communication multiple times faster than current fifth-generation networks.
This next-generation wireless network is designed to support various applications, from enhanced mobile broadband to mission-critical communications and extensive IoT deployments. The primary focus of this technology is to support the fourth industrial revolution, bridging the gap between humans, machines, and the environment.
With its capacity to process large amounts of data in real time, 6G aims to unlock new possibilities in smart cities, autonomous driving, immersive augmented and virtual reality experiences, and much more, paving the way for a truly interconnected world.
As a successor to 5G technology, the 6G development process is aimed at creating wireless technology that is anticipated to be much faster and more efficient. According to a report from Bloomberg, 6G is undergoing research and development, with standards anticipated to be finalized by 2028 and widespread deployment around 2030.
For businesses, this new wave of technology seeks to deliver a seamless, immersive experience across various domains, enabling devices to support tasks that were previously unattainable due to technological limitations. From remote monitoring in healthcare to automation in manufacturing, 6G’s potential to revolutionize every business operation is vast.
Businesses must prepare for the arrival of 6G by investing in the appropriate infrastructure and skills to harness its benefits. This entails strategizing for 6G integration, exploring innovative business models, and forming partnerships for a smooth transition to a 6G-driven digital ecosystem.
Industry 4.0 Development and 6G: Navigating the Future
Industry 4.0, also referred to as the Fourth Industrial Revolution, is characterized by the increasing automation and digitalization of manufacturing processes. This transformation heavily relies on a robust and advanced communication infrastructure to facilitate real-time data exchange, machine-to-machine communication, and remote monitoring. This is where 6G technology emerges as a game-changer.
Immediate and Reliable Communication
In the context of Industry 4.0, it is crucial for devices to communicate in real time with minimal delays. 6G technology promises to enable this, facilitating efficient coordination between machines and sensors. This is essential for automating and optimizing manufacturing processes.
Support for Numerous Devices
As factories become more intelligent, the number of devices, from sensors to robots, significantly increases. 6G is designed to accommodate this growing number of connections, ensuring that networks can handle multiple devices simultaneously. This capability is critical for enabling a fully integrated smart factory environment.
Consistent Network Performance
Beyond simply connecting devices, 6G ensures that data transmission is reliable and timely. This consistency is vital for the smooth operation of automated systems, ensuring that they work together seamlessly and efficiently.
The fusion of Industry 4.0 development and 6G is set to unlock a new industrial revolution, supported by improved operational efficiency, enhanced product quality, predictive maintenance, and agile manufacturing.
Exploring the Benefits of 6G Technology for Enterprises
As we enter a new phase in technology, 6G technology is positioned to significantly improve digital communication and connectivity. Here are the primary advantages offered by 6G technology, laying the groundwork for innovation and effectiveness.
Enhanced Network Reliability
6G aims to eliminate data transmission delays, ensuring high reliability. This is particularly crucial for critical applications such as autonomous vehicles and remote surgeries, where every moment is crucial for professionals.
Super-Fast Data Speeds
6G pledges to notably boost data speeds, delivering instant downloads and enhancing the quality of streaming services. This enhancement will result in a seamless and more enjoyable online experience across all digital platforms, empowering businesses to provide exceptional services and interact with their customers instantly.
Improved Connectivity
The improved connectivity provided by 6G technology is one of its most sought-after benefits. This will enable businesses to streamline their operations and introduce innovative smart technology solutions, leading to smarter, more efficient services and enhanced customer experiences.
Innovative Application Development
Groundbreaking application development facilitated by 6G will create new opportunities for businesses to innovate in service delivery, improving education, healthcare, and entertainment experiences with unmatched clarity and responsiveness.
Energy Efficiency
In addition to enhancing speed and connectivity, 6G also focuses on environmental sustainability. By optimizing data transmission and embracing green energy, 6G networks will help reduce the environmental impact of our expanding digital world, giving businesses a sustainable advantage.
After examining the various benefits of 6G technology, let’s proceed to understand the different features of the technology that redefine the “hyper connected” future.
New Frequency Bands
6G will leverage new frequency bands, significantly enhancing capacity and speed. This includes mid-bands for urban areas, low bands for broad coverage, and sub-THz spectrums for data speeds exceeding 100 Gbps. This expansion means businesses can expect faster, more reliable business connections.
Extremely High Data Transfer Speeds
With speeds expected to reach 1 Tbps, 6G will enable immediate access to modern multimedia services for users worldwide. This will transform online interactions and significantly improve content and service delivery, making digital platforms more captivating and effective.
Integration of AI and ML
Artificial intelligence and machine learning will be deeply integrated into 6G networks. This integration will enhance communication optimization and network management. It will also create more efficient networks that can adapt and optimize in real time, opening the door for innovative applications and services.
Holographic Communication
6G is anticipated to introduce holographic communication, providing a new dimension to remote interactions. This technology can revolutionize business meetings, educational sessions, and personal communication, delivering a more immersive experience.
Machine-to-Machine Connectivity
6G is projected to support up to 10 million devices per square kilometer, surpassing the capabilities of 5G technology. This extensive connectivity will facilitate everything from smart city infrastructure to automated factories, ensuring machines can communicate and operate more efficiently than ever.
Innovative Network Architectures
Building on the foundation of 5G, 6G technology will adopt new architectures suitable for a cloud-based future. This includes deploying services across diverse cloud environments and ensuring seamless operation across private, public, and hybrid clouds.
Smart Cities
6G technology will play a critical role in establishing fully smart cities where traffic lights, public transport, and utility systems can communicate seamlessly. For instance, using real-time traffic updates, buses and trains could adjust their routes and schedules. Additionally, sensors placed around the city could monitor air quality and take action if necessary. The fast and responsive network provided by 6G will turn these interconnected smart cities into a reality.
Autonomous Vehicles
One of the most advanced and futuristic use cases of 6G that businesses should anticipate is autonomous vehicles. The introduction of 6G technology promises to revolutionize the transportation sector by supporting fully autonomous vehicles. This technology will enable cars, drones, and public transit systems to communicate seamlessly, analyze live data, and make immediate decisions to enhance safety. It will further help reduce traffic congestion and enhance the overall travel experience.
Telemedicine and Remote Surgery
6G has the potential to transform the delivery of healthcare through telemedicine and remote surgical procedures. It will allow for high-quality video calls, real-time patient monitoring, and the performance of surgeries from a distance with the assistance of robots. This advancement is anticipated to greatly expand healthcare access, particularly in remote areas, by promoting greater reliability.
Virtual and Augmented Reality
With the impressive bandwidth and minimal latency of 6G, VR and AR technologies are expected to become more immersive and efficient. This could revolutionize education with realistic learning simulations and enable industries to overlay real-time data for maintenance and repairs, providing a virtually seamless experience.
Industrial Automation
6G wireless communication services will improve industrial automation by enhancing machine-to-machine communications. This means factories with 6G technology could have robots and automated systems working together more efficiently without requiring human input. In essence, the emergence of 6G will enable these factories to increase productivity and safety while ensuring higher operational efficiency.
Environmental Monitoring
6G will play a crucial role in environmental conservation and sustainability projects. It will enable a global network of sensors to monitor weather conditions, track wildlife, and detect natural disasters as they occur, providing data that is essential for proactive environmental protection.
IoT Applications
Harnessing the power of 6G wireless communications will significantly expand the capabilities of the Internet of Things. This encompasses everything from smart homes to smart farming equipment that monitors crops and adjusts care as needed, enhancing device interconnectivity and automation.
Edge Computing
With the development of 6G, edge computing will experience substantial enhancements, processing data near its source rather than in distant data centers. This will result in quicker processing for a variety of applications such as gaming, business analytics, and more, making digital interactions faster and more efficient.
After exploring the various futuristic 6G use cases, let us now proceed to comprehend various business strategies that can assist businesses in leveraging the power of 6G development in the future.
A group of global telecommunications standards organizations has announced plans to collaborate on the development of a sixth generation of high-speed wireless cellular communications specifications. However, consumer adoption of 5G has been underwhelming. There are questions about whether 6G, expected to be introduced in the next decade, will garner much attention.
Mobile carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile pledged that 5G networks would revolutionize our lives. Auctions for spectrum reached a record high in 2021 when Verizon bid over $45 billion. Yet many smartphone users struggle to perceive any difference.
According to a survey by Global Wireless Solutions, about two-thirds of US mobile phone users have tested 5G networks. Nevertheless, ABI Research anticipates that more subscribers will be using 4G by the end of 2023.
The rollout of 5G is to blame. Upgrades were incremental and offered little improvement. The additional speed, capacity, and connectivity available on standalone networks have yet to be fully utilized.
The 4G networks launched in the early 2010s enabled mobile users to stream videos, play games, and conduct conference calls. While 5G has the potential to enable high-quality virtual and augmented reality and facilitate instant communication between devices like autonomous vehicles, these advanced functions have not gained widespread appeal.
The new 6G could enable data speeds up to 50 or 100 times faster than 5G. Companies such as Huawei and Nokia state that it should be ready for deployment in the early 2030s. Both the US and China are determined not to let the other gain an advantage.
However, data from CB Insights indicates that mentions of 5G during earnings calls peaked in 2021 and have since declined. Capital spending growth by network operators is anticipated to decrease next year. Operators want to see better returns on their investment in 5G before considering further network upgrades.
What is 6G?
6G is the next generation of mobile networks after 5G — specifically after a stepping-stone known as 5G Advanced, built on the Release 18 standard. Release 18 is projected to be finalized in mid-2024, with device and network support for 5G Advanced likely to become available during 2025.
5G Advanced “will include significant enhancements in the areas of AI and extended reality (XR) that will enable highly intelligent network solutions to support a wider variety of use cases than ever before,” according to 5G Americas.
What about 6G? According to Nokia: “Every improvement in network connectivity that 5G brings to the end-user will be further perfected with 6G. Whether it’s smart cities, farms or factories, and robotics, 6G will take it to the next level.”
When can we expect the arrival of 6G?
If 6G development proceeds as it has historically with a 10-year cadence, we may see the first commercial networks around 2030, possibly earlier in regions such as Asia, where 5G networks were quickly deployed.
During the upcoming Mobile World Congress 2023, a major theme will be ‘5G Acceleration’. However, there are also discussions focused on 6G, with sessions titled ‘Ready to talk 6G?’ and ‘Spectrum: delivering a 6G Future’.
We can anticipate an increased focus on 6G as requirements and standards are developed, frequency bands (up to terahertz level) are defined and allocated, the Radio Access Network (RAN) is expanded, AI-powered core networks are deployed, and devices with 6G support are introduced to the market.
How fast will 6G be, and what are the potential use cases it will enable?
While the requirements for 6G are yet to be finalized, potential downlink data rates could reach up to one terabit per second (1Tbps, or 1000Gbps), with latency measured in microseconds. Achieving anywhere near these numbers in practice would allow for a wider and more efficient range of use cases than with 5G.
Qualcomm envisions 6G as “A smarter society enabled by the connected intelligent edge”. This would involve leveraging core technology advances in wireless, semiconductors, materials, and AI/ML to meet society’s sustainability needs, as well as delivering “next-level experiences that cannot be met with 5G”.
In addition to evolving the services of 5G, next-generation 6G mobile networks are expected to enable more immersive extended reality (XR) experiences and new capabilities in wireless positioning and remote sensing, according to Qualcomm’s predictions.
The current focus of the 3GPP is finalizing the Release 18 standard for 5G Advanced and making decisions on the content of Release 19, expected in September 2023. Initial work on 6G specifications will commence with Release 20 in 2025, with Release 21 anticipated to be completed and ratified by 2028, in time for the launch of commercial 6G networks in 2030.
What spectrum will 6G utilize?
6G will support all of the frequency bands used by 5G — low band (<1GHz), mid-band (1-7GHz), and mmWave (24-100GHz) — and introduce two new spectrum bands not currently used by mobile network operators.
The upper mid-band range, 7-24GHz, is currently utilized for non-cellular communication purposes, including fixed wireless links, military, satellite, maritime, and science services. However, advanced AI-enabled dynamic frequency sharing mechanisms should enable 6G networks to utilize upper mid-band spectrum, increasing the capacity for wide-area broadband.
Sub-terahertz frequencies (100-1000GHz) beyond mmWave can provide very high data rates and low latencies, but pose challenges in terms of coverage, mobility, and device power consumption. Potential use cases include wireless fronthaul and backhaul, fixed wireless to the home, wireless data centers, ultra-precise positioning, and RF sensing.
What about satellites?
Support for non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) — primarily involving LEO (Low-Earth Orbit) and GEO (Geostationary) satellites, as well as drones (UAVs) and high-altitude platform stations (HAPS) — has been part of the 3GPP’s remit since Release 17. The main goal is to extend coverage to areas where terrestrial coverage is not available. “Including satellite as part of the 3GPP specifications will support the promise of worldwide access to 5G services and drive explosive growth in the satellite industry,” the 3GPP states.
Recent announcements from Apple, Qualcomm, and British company Bullitt Group have generated interest in satellite communication on smartphones, and the 3GPP will continue to develop its NTN standards through Release 18 and beyond.
Conclusions
It’s easy to be carried away with the promise of future technology, but we should also keep a sense of perspective: many people in developed countries still lack 5G coverage, and many of those who do have been underwhelmed so far. Meanwhile, significant parts of the world have no mobile coverage at all, which explains the growing interest in affordable satellite communications.
6G is expected to bring numerous advancements, but the benefits may not become evident until 2030 at the earliest, and likely even later for most people.
South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT unveiled its $324.5 million research and development plan for future 6G networks, local news agency Yonhap reported, disclosing the program for the future 6G networks.
The plan includes developing technologies related to wireless communications, mobile core networks, 6G wired networks, 6G systems and the standardization of 6G with a budget of $324.5 million.
The plan also involves standardizing the locally-developed 6G technologies to meet international standardization requirements as early as next year.
South Korea’s 6G plan also aims to advance the 5G network service by developing technologies for the upper-mid band, which covers the frequency range of 7 GHz to 24 GHz.
The ministry also aims to showcase the intermediate outcome of its 6G network development in 2026 to set international standards for the next-generation network service.
In February, the Korean government announced its plan to commercialize an initial 6G network service in 2028, two years earlier than its initial schedule.
The government also announced its K-Network 2030 strategy to boost private-public cooperation to develop 6G technologies and strengthen the network supply chain.
The ministry previously launched a feasibility study for research and development on core 6G technologies with a $2.3 billion budget to locally produce materials, components, and equipment related to future 6G networks.
The ministry accelerated the launch of the 6G service believing the country cannot achieve industrial innovation without having a global competitive edge in the 6G field.
Korean telco SK Telecom recently released a 6G white paper focusing on key requirements for 6G standardization and the telco’s views regarding the direction of future network evolution.
The standardization process for future 6G systems is in its early stages, with the International Telecommunication Union-Radiocommunication Sector (ITU-R) Working Party (WP) 5D publishing the framework recommendation of 6G networks in June 2023, expected to be commercialized around 2030. The first discussion on 6G candidate frequencies is scheduled to take place at the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC) at the end of this year, with WP 5D expected to begin working on the technical performance requirements of 6G from 2024.
SK Telecom’s new white paper contains its views on 6G key requirements and 6G evolution methodology, along with its opinions on the latest trends in frequency standardization. The paper also provides analysis, development directions, and methodologies pertaining to promising 6G use cases, technology trends, as well as and candidate frequencies.
SK Telecom highlighted that some of the 6G key requirements include “powerful” 6G products and services, simple architecture options, technologies that can expand coverage, and device heat and power consumption reduction technologies to improve user experience.
The US and several international partners have endorsed shared principles for developing 6G wireless communication systems, as confirmed by the White House on Monday, signaling a battle over 6G standards and expressing concerns about authoritarian regimes controlling the internet within their borders. Wireless communication policies impact economic growth and national security, fueling the ongoing rivalry between the US and China.
China claimed to have launched the world’s first satellite to test 6G architecture earlier this month, and the governments of the US, Australia, Canada, the Czech Republic, Finland, France, Japan, South Korea, Sweden, and the UK jointly released a statement highlighting their commitment to open, free, global, interoperable, reliable, resilient, and secure connectivity. The statement outlined key principles, including the use of systematic approaches to ensure cybersecurity, the protection of privacy, and the development of accessible technologies for developing nations.
China aims to dominate the development and rollout of 6G infrastructure, as it did with 5G, where Chinese firms currently hold 70% of the world’s base stations and 80% of 5G-connected devices. The shared principles aim to counter potential control by authoritarian regimes and highlight the significance of wireless communication policies for economic growth and national security, emphasizing the importance of cybersecurity, privacy, and accessibility for developing nations.
If China were to achieve dominance in both 5G and 6G technologies, it could present significant challenges to the United States and its allies. The potential Chinese predominance in these fields may expose vulnerabilities.
Fast Internet access has become critical in a world where education, commerce, personal interactions, and emergency communications are increasingly conducted via handheld devices. However, large portions of the U.S. still lack sufficient high-speed broadband or cellular connectivity. A potential solution might be the development of a sixth-generation cellular network, which experts anticipate will incorporate a space-based system in addition to ground-based coverage options. This 6G network could eventually provide nationwide high-speed data connectivity, but its progress is still in the early stages.
Activities such as participating in video conferences and streaming high-definition video may require download speeds of 25 megabits per second. In 2019, these speeds were unattainable for 4.4 percent of Americans, according to the most recent Broadband Progress Report from the Federal Communications Commission. The lack of access to reliable Internet is notably higher in rural communities (17 percent) and on tribal land (21 percent), respectively, contributing to a digital divide that disproportionately affects underserved communities.
During the summer, the federal government took measures to enhance connectivity by expanding existing broadband infrastructure. In late June, the Biden administration announced a commitment of $42.45 billion to the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, a federal initiative aimed at providing reliable high-speed Internet access to all U.S. residents. While the project emphasizes broadband connectivity, some experts suggest that a more robust cellular connection could potentially obviate the need for wired Internet.
The 6G network is in such early stages of development that its speed capabilities are not yet clear. Each new generation of wireless technology is categorized by the United Nations’ International Telecommunication Union (ITU) based on specific ranges of upload and download speeds. These standards have not yet been established for 6G, but industry experts expect it to be anywhere from 10 to 1,000 times faster than current 5G networks. This will be achieved through the use of higher-frequency radio waves compared to its predecessors, leading to a faster connection with fewer network delays.
Regardless of the final speed of the new network, it could enable futuristic technology, according to Lingjia Liu, a prominent 6G researcher and a professor of electrical and computer engineering at Virginia Tech. “Wi-Fi provides good service, but 6G is being designed to provide even better service than your home router, particularly in reducing latency, to address the increasing remote workforce,” Liu states.
This is likely to usher in a wave of new applications that are currently inconceivable at current network speeds. For instance, your phone could function as a router, self-driving cars might be able to communicate with each other almost instantaneously, and mobile devices could become completely hands-free. “The speed of 6G will enable applications that we may not even imagine today. The goal for the industry is to have the global coverage and support ready for those applications when they come,” Liu says.
While the theoretical speeds of 6G sound promising, the previous 5G network also claimed to offer a very fast connection. However, people in many parts of the world still lack access to 5G infrastructure, and devices designed to utilize 5G must also be able to revert to 4G and 3G connections in cases where those slower networks are the only available options.
“The 5G cellular network currently covers only about 10 percent of the Earth’s surface,” says Jeffrey Andrews, director of 6G@UT, a research center at the University of Texas at Austin focusing on underlying technologies to support 6G cellular networks in the near future. That coverage area could change significantly in the 6G era, Andrews says, as the new generation will partially rely on space-based systems, enabling it to cover much more of the planet than its ground-based predecessors. “I think utilizing space systems to provide global coverage will be a revolutionary aspect of the 6G era,” Andrews suggests.
Current research and development efforts for 6G are concentrated on establishing nonterrestrial networks comprising of low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites and unmanned aerial vehicles. These networks are anticipated to operate at a fraction of the cost of 5G, which relies mainly on ground-based fiber-optic cables and cellular towers. According to Andrews, leveraging the LEO constellations that are already being developed will enable 6G to offer a more economical connection than 5G, which necessitates time and resources to install fiber-optic networks across the country, including in less densely populated areas.
Those sparsely populated regions are a key focus of the BEAD program—so if BEAD links the whole country to existing broadband networks, will there even be a need for 6G global coverage? While the BEAD investment is a step toward closing the digital gap, some experts doubt its potential. BEAD assigns funds to each U.S. state and territory based on the FCC’s broadband map, which has come under scrutiny from the telecom industry due to various inaccuracies. A previous version of the map faced challenges in over four million locations.
“I cannot overemphasize how the data decisions in creating this map will have far-reaching consequences,” says Alexis Schrubbe, director of the Internet Equity Initiative at the University of Chicago’s Data Science Institute. “This map is likely the most high-stakes data product ever created by the federal government.” This makes its flaws extremely significant. According to Schrubbe, the algorithms used to identify broadband serviceable locations for this map often made errors when analyzing Native American land and rural areas—key examples of the very locations in dire need of more connectivity.
Even as the FCC continues to refine its broadband map for a better understanding of coverage needs, the map’s issues mean that 6G may eventually be able to connect every device in the U.S. more rapidly and affordably. Schrubbe sees the two types of technology as complementary. “They work alongside each other,” she says. “It’s not so much that one is in competition with the other, but rather that if we have a better-distributed transport system across the United States, it will create opportunities for those technologies to thrive even more.”
Another way 6G will advance from its predecessors is through its utilization of artificial intelligence, explains Harish Viswanathan, head of radio systems research at Nokia Bell Labs. “I believe we will observe numerous applications of AI in 6G, much more than what we are aiming to do in 5G,” Viswanathan anticipates. AI will assist existing networks in conserving energy by analyzing real-time data usage, as well as playing a crucial role in processing and uploading data quickly. “Machine learning, especially deep learning, which we refer to as artificial intelligence, has made significant advancements in other domains,” Viswanathan says. “Those tools are now applicable to us in wireless communications.”
Sixth-generation communication technology may present revolutionary pledges, but it will not replace existing networks for some time: earlier this year, the ITU estimated that 6G won’t be available to consumers until 2030.
A new telecom generation is anticipated to emerge every 10 years. Today, we are witnessing the commercialization of 5G, which pledges faster data rates, close to 1-ms latency and higher internet reliability. The characteristics of 5G will not only deliver a better user experience but will enable business applications that previous generations could not, such as mixed-reality experiences that can be utilized in gaming or industrial settings.
So what can we anticipate from 6G? Compared to its predecessor, 6G guarantees significantly improved communication capabilities. The most important features are terabit/second (Tbps)-level peak data rates, microsecond-level latency and 99.99999% network dependability. In addition to exceptional performance, 6G will include airborne stations to enable “3D communication,” which would enhance network coverage. This differs from earlier telecom generations, which solely focused on ground communications. Moreover, as it will utilize terahertz spectrum, 6G will tap into applications that go beyond telecom connectivity. These will involve energy harvesting, precise positioning, sensing, imaging, and other techniques.
While a number of nations and major companies have already initiated 6G research, the technology is unlikely to be commercialized before 2028. Several challenges must be addressed from both hardware and software perspectives.
We already know that 6G will utilize a spectrum above 100 GHz and will eventually extend into the terahertz region. The benefits of using such a high frequency are evident: Tremendous bandwidth can be utilized, allowing for terabit/second peak data flow with microsecond-level latency. However, there are several limitations to using such a high-frequency spectrum.
The terahertz signal weakens rapidly in the air, limiting the propagation range and making it easily obstructed by obstacles. Because the laws of physics cannot be disregarded, the most critical criterion when developing a device for high-frequency communication is to provide enough power to achieve a reasonable communication range, even as part of an antenna array.
Another challenge is 6G’s high spectral efficiency, which directly trades off with the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) required for detection. The higher the required SNR, the shorter the respective range becomes due to transmitted power limitations at high frequencies, as well as added noise.
Large data rates require a wide bandwidth, and while the terahertz spectrum offers a huge bandwidth, each operator’s access is likely to be restricted and spread across multiple bands. Therefore, it’s important to find ways to leverage other technological advancements to compensate for the reduced continuous bandwidth.
In terms of current research and future prospects, let’s consider some significant performance announcements for 6G D-band (120- to 170-GHz) transceiver prototypes made in the last two years. LG and Fraunhofer HHI have set a distance record for data transmission in the terahertz band by achieving wireless transmission and reception of 6G terahertz data at a frequency range of 155 to 175 GHz over a distance of 320 meters outdoors. Notably, the data rate was not disclosed in the public release. Samsung’s cutting-edge D-band phase-array transmitter prototype can now achieve up to 12 Gbps at a distance of 30 meters indoors, and 2.3 Gbps at a distance of 120 meters outdoors. CEA-Leti has achieved 85 Gbps, although the over-the-air transit distance is only a few centimeters.
It can be observed that while a 6G transmitter operating at D-band frequencies can reach nearly 100-Gbps data rates, the over-the-air transmission connection is limited to only a few centimeters. The data rates deteriorate as the range extends to a few hundred meters. Therefore, numerous hardware technology requirements must be considered when developing a device for high-frequency communication like 6G to enhance link range and data throughput.
Beyond 200 GHz, conventional Si technology is inadequate for providing the required performance. Instead, a combination of CMOS for logic and III-V semiconductors for low-noise amplifiers and power amplifiers will be preferred. For frequencies between 200 GHz and 500 GHz, SiGe BiCMOS technology currently offers the best compromise in terms of performance, cost, and ease of integration. InP could be the ultimate terahertz technology and may be suitable for applications where cost is not the main concern.
Devices for high-frequency communication face other challenges as well, such as the need to find ultra-low–loss materials with a low dielectric constant and tan loss to avoid significant transmission loss, develop a packaging methodology that tightly integrates the RF components with antennas , and manage power and thermal issues as devices become more compact and complex.
Scientists in Japan have transferred data at 100 gigabits per second
A group of companies in Japan has developed the first-ever high-speed 6G wireless device, which can transmit data at astonishing rates of 100 gigabits per second (Gbps) over distances exceeding 300 feet (90 meters) — significantly faster than 5G, by a factor of up to 20.
These transmission speeds are comparable to sending five HD movies wirelessly every second, and according to Statista, they are as much as 500 times quicker than average 5G speeds provided by T-Mobile in the U.S.
The new test results, revealed on April 11 through a joint announcement, indicate that the consortium’s wireless device successfully transmitted data at 100 Gbps indoors using the 100 gigahertz (GHz) band and outdoors in the 300 GHz band, which is positioned below infrared in the electromagnetic spectrum. Representatives from the consortium stated that the tests took place over a distance of 328 feet (100 meters).
5G, which was introduced in 2019, is currently the most advanced wireless communication standard and is used by nearly all newer smartphones, for example. In the U.S., average speeds for T-Mobile are around 204.9 megabits per second (Mbps), while the theoretical maximum speed for 5G is at least 10 Gbps.
However, researchers are already developing the next generation of this standard, known as 6G, with the infrastructure planned to be in place before its rollout in the early 2030s, as stated by the GSM Association (GSMA) — with GSM standing for Global System for Mobile.
The primary distinctions between 5G and 6G relate to the frequency bands within the electromagnetic spectrum that they utilize. Operating in higher frequency bands typically results in significantly higher speeds.
5G signals are generally transmitted within bands under 6 GHz and extended to approximately 40 GHz — referred to as the “millimeter-wave bands,” according to 6GWorld.
Conversely, 6G is anticipated to utilize higher-frequency bands classified as “sub-THz” bands, which range from 100 GHz to 300 GHz, as indicated by Nokia. Transmitting in this frequency range offers the possibility of achieving faster speeds but also presents the challenge of increased interference from the surrounding environment, leading to a higher likelihood of signal blockage — especially indoors.
While the transition from 4G to 5G allowed for vastly greater media consumption, the leap from 5G to 6G may enable the emergence of innovative technologies such as holographic communication and enhanced virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality experiences.
Because 6G operates on much higher frequency bands, an entirely new infrastructure will be necessary to transmit and amplify signals, and devices like smartphones or VR equipment will need to include 6G antennae.
In earlier experiments, researchers have recorded faster 6G speeds — albeit over much shorter distances. For instance, another team of scientists in Japan recorded record-breaking 6G speeds of up to 240 Gbps but only over a distance of 66 feet (20 m), sharing their findings on February 10 in the journal IEICE Electronics Express.
A recent study from University College London achieved wireless data transmission over a 6G network at 938 gigabits per second, which is over 9,000 times the transfer speed of current 5G connections.
This amount of data equates to sending 500 emails in just one second. To date, this is believed to be the fastest transmission of multiplex data. Multiplex data integrates multiple analog or digital streams into a single signal.
The research, published in the Journal of Lightwave Technology (via New Scientist), was an experimental study aimed at enhancing data transmission, particularly in crowded situations like concerts and sports events, where existing mobile networks can struggle due to heavy usage. This congestion is often attributed to bandwidth limitations on 5G networks, which typically cap at around 6GHz. In the U.S., bands usually range between 2.5 GHz and 4.2 GHz.
The UCL study expanded the frequency range from 5GHz to 150GHz by combining radio waves and light waves.
Zhixin Liu, the study’s author, noted that traditional digital-to-analog converters transmit data using radio waves but face difficulties at higher frequencies. Liu and his team integrated radio waves for the lower spectrum with lasers for the upper spectrum to establish a broader bandwidth. They assert that this extended band can be accommodated by new hardware that could be incorporated into future smartphones.
According to New Scientist, individual signals have been capable of “exceeding 1 per second,” but multiplex data allows for effective operation even when networks become congested.
Liu explained, “Just like with traffic, you need wider roads to carry more cars.” In his perspective, expanding the frequency ranges can be compared to upgrading from a two-lane highway to a six-lane freeway.
Liu mentioned that as a result of the study, his team is engaging with smartphone manufacturers and network operators with the hope that future 6G networks can leverage their research.
By late 2023, it was reported that Apple had begun the development of a modem that supports 6G technology, although their first in-house 5G modem is expected to be featured in the iPhone SE 4 next year as part of their strategy to reduce reliance on Qualcomm.
Since at least 2021, discussions about 6G have been ongoing, and Samsung anticipates that we won’t encounter the new network speed until 2028. In February 2024, Samsung announced a collaboration with Princeton University to investigate 6G and set standards for the future network.
Liu’s technology could potentially be featured in upcoming 6G hardware, but we’re still a few years away from seeing a 6G-capable smartphone on the market.
In an era of continual technological advancement, it can be difficult to keep track of the latest developments around us. This is especially true in the realm of cellular networks. We’ve witnessed the rise and fall of 2G and 3G. While 4G is gradually being phased out, the rollout of 5G is still in progress globally; however, excitement is already building around the subsequent generation of wireless technology: 6G.
Despite being in its early stages, numerous telecom vendors are heavily investing in 6G technology. But what is driving such widespread interest? And given the capabilities of 5G, is 6G truly necessary? In this blog, we will explore both technologies, their differences, and their implications for the future of communications.
The fifth generation of cellular network technology, known as 5G, has unlocked entirely new possibilities for consumers and businesses alike. It theoretically offers speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second, which is 30 times faster than the maximum speed offered by 4G. Utilizing higher frequency bands than previous generations, it can be deployed in low-band, mid-band, or high-band millimeter waves ranging from 24 gigahertz (GHz) to 66 GHz. This advancement allows for quicker data transfers and larger bandwidth capacity. The technology has enabled the explosive growth of the Internet of Things (IoT), which currently supports various industries and businesses worldwide. It is projected that by 2030, the economic impact of 5G on sectors like utilities, health, social care, consumer, media, and finance in the UK will contribute £43 billion to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The upcoming generation of cellular network technology, termed 6G, is expected to provide even faster speeds than 5G and will revolutionize global connectivity. Its capability to utilize higher frequencies and deliver significantly greater capacity promises improved performance that enhances any current 5G capabilities.
Although availability is not anticipated until 2030, experts predict that 6G technology could achieve speeds of one terabit per second (Tbps), which is roughly one hundred times faster than the average theoretical maximum speed of 5G.
The potential of this technology opens up a new realm of possibilities for communication and lifestyle improvements, including the development of energy-efficient smart homes, automated transport systems, enhanced environmental monitoring, and innovative healthcare solutions.
Key differences between 5G and 6G
Low Latency
Both technological generations exhibit low latency rates. While the latency for 4G typically hovers around 50 milliseconds, 5G can potentially reduce this to 5 milliseconds. It is estimated that 6G could further minimize latency to just 1 millisecond, enabling the instant transmission of vast amounts of data and greatly enhancing the digital user experience.
Different Parts of the Spectrum
5G and 6G utilize different segments of the wireless spectrum, allowing them to transmit larger quantities of data more rapidly.
5G operates on broadband frequencies below 6 GHz and above 24.25 GHz, categorized as low band and high band frequencies respectively. In contrast, 6G networks are expected to function at higher frequencies ranging from 95 GHz to 3 Terahertz (THz). As mentioned earlier, these numbers suggest that 6G could potentially offer data speeds of up to 1 Tbps.
The higher frequency bands utilized by 6G networks also enhance bandwidth capacity. This improvement permits more users to connect to the network simultaneously while accommodating multiple data-heavy applications.
Speed
The speed capabilities of 6G are poised to present exciting new possibilities for both business and personal use. Enhanced speed that facilitates instantaneous connections between devices will enable groundbreaking technologies, including advanced AI applications and next-generation robotics.
According to Forbes, 6G is set to “ignite the metaverse,” as it possesses the capacity to deliver the speed and bandwidth necessary for creating a cohesive, immersive, fully-integrated 3D virtual environment. This innovation will enable experiences that are currently impossible in the physical world, becoming pivotal in how audiences engage with various festivals and major sporting events in the future.
Energy Efficiency
The upcoming 6G technology is expected to be much more energy-efficient, enabling it to reduce capacity or deactivate components when power demand is low. This will be a key focus in the design of 6G, along with other factors like capacity, peak data rates, latency, and reliability.
Healthcare
Many experts predict that 6G will revolutionize the healthcare sector through the implementation of remote surgery and smart healthcare applications that utilize devices such as smartphones, smartwatches, wireless blood pressure monitors, and smart glucometers. This advanced form of ‘smart healthcare’ will be capable of collecting and processing health data using sensors, body implants, and biomedical systems. By constantly gathering and analyzing patient information, these systems will be able to offer recommendations and foresee health issues before they occur, shifting us from a largely reactive healthcare model to a more proactive one.
The substantial volume of data produced by the many connected healthcare devices and applications is also anticipated to play a crucial role in addressing future diseases or pandemics through early detection. This will fundamentally change our approach to health management in the future and significantly affect the daily functions of those working in healthcare settings.
Additionally, features like the ability to conduct remote surgeries might become feasible, thanks to the superior network reliability that 6G is expected to provide.
The question, “Is 6G really necessary?” will be contentious for many individuals. Regardless of whether we are personally prepared for such advances or not, 6G is on its way, poised to profoundly influence our lifestyles and work environments. It is expected to be available as soon as 2030, so while some sectors may take longer to embrace it, others will be quick to adapt. We need to recognize that 6G is approaching and begin preparing for its arrival to maintain our competitive edge.
As network connectivity specialists, TPS is already planning long-term strategies to ensure we can support essential network functions both now and upon the arrival of 6G. We acknowledge the financial ramifications that this exciting technological era will bring for all organizations and can assist in establishing a confidence-inspiring plan for this unavoidable rollout.
We are closely monitoring developments as they progress. When 6G arrives, we will be prepared, ensuring that you are ready as well.
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