Samsung reveals roadmap for 6G technology in new report

The telecommunications industry is progressing toward 6G technology development, with major players laying groundwork for the next generation of mobile communications. Samsung Electronics has published a comprehensive white paper examining how artificial intelligence and sustainability will shape the future of mobile networks.

Major developments: Samsung Electronics’ new white paper, “AI-Native & Sustainable Communication,” explores emerging trends and technologies that will define 6G networks and services.

• The document builds upon Samsung’s initial 6G white paper from July 2020, reflecting evolving market demands and technological progress
• Charlie Zhang, senior vice president at Samsung Research, emphasized the company’s focus on AI-enabled communication technologies and sustainable networks
• The transition from 5G to 5G-Advanced will incorporate AI capabilities, serving as a stepping stone toward 6G technology

Key emerging services: Samsung identifies several breakthrough applications that will leverage 6G capabilities to transform various industries.

• Immersive extended reality (XR) will blend virtual and physical environments for applications in entertainment, healthcare, and research
• Digital twin technology will create virtual replicas of physical objects and environments for remote monitoring and management
• Massive communication networks will connect vast numbers of devices to enable smart city and factory automation
• Ubiquitous connectivity will expand network coverage through integrated terrestrial and satellite systems
• Fixed Wireless Access will provide broadband service over wireless connections, reducing dependency on traditional infrastructure

Core network characteristics: The white paper outlines four fundamental attributes that will distinguish 6G networks.

• AI-Native design will integrate artificial intelligence throughout all network systems and operations
• Sustainable network architecture will optimize energy efficiency for both infrastructure and devices
• Ubiquitous coverage will combine terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks to improve service reach
• Enhanced security measures will protect against emerging threats in the AI-driven computing landscape of the 2030s

Industry coordination: The telecommunications sector is working collaboratively to develop 6G standards and technologies.

• Standardization efforts have been ongoing since 2020, with final standards expected by 2030
• The International Telecommunication Union Radiocommunication Sector and 3GPP are establishing clear development timelines
• Samsung demonstrated AI-RAN technologies and proof of concept results at its Silicon Valley Future Wireless Summit

Looking ahead: While 6G technology promises significant advances in mobile communications, successful implementation will require sustained cooperation between industry stakeholders and careful attention to evolving market needs. The integration of AI capabilities and focus on sustainability indicate a shift toward more intelligent and environmentally conscious network design.