6G - How the next generation of mobile communications is reinventing our digital infrastructure

While 5G is still being rolled out in many places, the research world is already working intensively on 6G. The sixth generation of mobile communications should be available from around 2030 - and it promises far more than just higher data rates. In fact, a fundamental change is on the horizon: 6G is being designed as an intelligent, adaptive and sensor-based infrastructure that seamlessly combines communication, computing power and environmental perception

From data network to AI-native system

A central paradigm of 6G development is the "AI-native network". Unlike previous generations of mobile communications, 6G will not only use artificial intelligence as a supplement, but will integrate it from the ground up. Networks will become self-optimizing, recognize usage patterns in real time and adapt resources autonomously. This will significantly improve efficiency, energy consumption and latency. At the same time, this opens up new possibilities for highly critical applications - for example in industrial automation or autonomous systems.

When the network perceives its environment

With 6G, communication is increasingly merging with sensor technology. The concept of "Integrated Sensing and Communication" (ISAC) makes it possible to use radio waves simultaneously for data transmission and for recording environmental information. Networks can detect movements, positions or material properties and process this information directly. This creates a digital image of the physical world in real time for smart cities, networked production environments or security applications.

New frequencies, new architectures, new ecosystems

In terms of technology, 6G relies on the use of higher frequency ranges - up to terahertz spectrums - to provide enormous bandwidths. This is complemented by innovative network architectures that integrate terrestrial mobile networks, satellite communication and edge computing. The aim is to achieve global, resilient and end-to-end connectivity. At the same time, standardization processes are already underway worldwide, including in the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), to define the technical foundations for the next decade.

More than just a technology change

6G does not mark an evolutionary step, but a strategic turning point. It is about digital sovereignty, industrial competitiveness and the ability to intelligently network physical and digital value creation systems. Companies, research institutions and political players are therefore called upon to address the technological, regulatory and economic implications at an early stage.

Experience 6G live: Trends and impulses from the MWC

Anyone wanting to delve deeper into the latest developments surrounding 6G will have the opportunity to do so next week at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona. As one of the world's most important leading trade fairs for mobile communications and connectivity, the MWC is a benchmark for technological trends, strategic alliances and new business models.

As Bayern Innovativ, we are on site to directly absorb the latest developments, announcements and innovation impulses and to categorize them for our network. If you are also in Barcelona or would like to discuss current 6G topics, we look forward to making an appointment and meeting you in person.

The course for 2030 is being set today!

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