6G mobile: an early look at what’s next

In the world of mobile networks, it’s never too early to think about what’ll happen next!

6G is upon us, just about, and this being telecoms it’s never too early to look further ahead. As those of us who’ve been working in the industry for any length of time know only too well, no sooner has one generation of mobile network began physically taking shape than conversation shifts to the next one. In this case, that’s 6G.

To be clear, 6G mobile networks are presently in the research and development stage, with concrete standards not yet established. That doesn’t, however, mean the conversation surrounding expectations and potential features hasn’t started, albeit remaining somewhat speculative for now. That reality notwithstanding, however, let’s see what people are beginning to talk about. What might we expect?

1. Speed and Capacity increases: Predictions suggest 6G will deliver considerably faster data speeds and higher capacity than 5G. The goal is to support data rates in the terabits which will enable very high-speed wireless communication.
2. Low Latency: It’s expected that 6G will achieve ultra-low latency, which will further reduce the delay between sending and receiving data. For applications such as virtual and augmented reality which are likely to become central, this advance is critical. The same for autonomous vehicles, and real-time communication.
3. Advanced Spectrum Usage: 6G is likely to use a broader range of frequencies such as millimetre-wave and terahertz. An expanded spectrum will be necessary to meet the increasing demand for data and support a massive number of connected devices.
4. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Integration: We’ve heard enough about AI already and it’s to play a central role in 6G networks. AI-powered technologies can be harnessed to improve network management, optimize resource allocation, and improve overall network efficiency.
5. Virtual reality? 6G is likely to support advanced forms of communication such as holographic and immersive experiences. If this is the case, it’ll dramatically change how people interact and collaborate over mobile networks.
6. Energy Efficiency: As sustainability and environmental responsibility continue to win mindshare generally, 6G may well focus on energy efficiency and sustainability. Technologies like dynamic energy management and improved power consumption wil be to the fore.
7. Global Connectivity: 6G networks will likely have a goal of providing seamless global connectivity, delivering reliable communication across borders and in diverse geographic regions.
8. Security and Privacy: We all rely on connected devices and data-intensive applications, so expect 6G to place a strong emphasis on enhancing security and privacy measures.

Talk to eContact Services

Let’s be clear, it’ll be some time before formal standards for 6G emerge, with commercial deployments unlikely to start before the 2030s. But the conversations and the speculation have started, and we can expect to hear more and more about it at events like MWC24 and others over the next few years. At eContact Services, we’ve worked with every generation of mobile over the past three decades so as you start to prepare for what’s coming next, please get in touch with us to learn more about how we can help you successfully bring your solution to market.