The path to 6G

Summary:

The European Union needs high-performing digital connectivity infrastructure to give all citizens the best access to digital services and to maintain prosperity. In the relentless pursuit of innovation and connectivity, the development of mobile communications technologies has been a defining force in shaping the way we communicate, work, and live. As the 2030s approach, the groundwork for the next frontier in mobile communications is being laid – the era of 6G. Building upon the successes and advances of previous mobile generations, 6G promises to revolutionise the connectivity landscape. From ultra-high data rates and low-latency communication to the integration of artificial intelligence, 6G is poised to reshape the way we interact with the digital world. However, with the promise of unprecedented capabilities comes a host of challenges. Critical aspects that demand attention in the development of 6G networks are privacy and cybersecurity. As 6G aims to push the boundaries of connectivity, enabling innovations such as holographic communication, seamless extended reality, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) on a massive scale, the potential risks to privacy and cybersecurity are magnified (e.g. mass data collection). Another critical aspect is its environmental footprint. While 6G aims for energy efficiency, the increasing demand for data and connectivity may still pose challenges related to energy consumption. Balancing technological progress with environmental considerations remains a key objective for the development of 6G. Countries and companies that lead in 6G development and deployment are expected to gain a competitive edge in terms of technological innovation, economic growth, and influence in shaping global standards. The global race to 6G has already begun.