Time to read: 1 minute 50 seconds | Published: April 30, 2025
6G What is 6G?
6G refers to the “sixth generation” of mobile/cellular network technology and is based on 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standards. 6G builds on the innovation of 5G to increase speed, reduce latency, and improve the flexibility of wireless services to better serve consumers and enterprises. Similar to previous 3GPP standards, it is expected that end user devices will need to be 6G compatible to run on 6G networks.
When will 6G be available?
6G is currently in the early stages of the standardization process, with 3GPP studies beginning in late 2025 and lasting approximately two years. The first commercial 6G networks are anticipated to deploy around 2030.
How will 6G be different than 5G?
6G is expected to use frequencies in the terahertz (THz) band, specifically between 100 GHz and 3 THz, to support ultra-high-speed data transmission. 6G is expected to be at least 100 times faster than 5G and provide for one microsecond latency, which would be 1,000 times faster than 5G.
What are the expected benefits of 6G?
The enhanced speed and connectivity will provide better support for advanced applications like AR/VR and IoT. In addition, it is expected that 6G will provide greater energy efficiency, reliability, connection density, positioning accuracy, and security.
What are some potential 6G use cases?
Proposals include a ubiquitous connectivity model which could include non-cellular access such as satellite and Wi-Fi, precise location services, and a framework for distributed edge computing supporting more sensor networks, immersive AR/VR, and AI workloads. Additional use cases could include holographic communication, digital twinning, replicas, smart cities, healthcare, industrial settings, and more.
How will AI be leveraged in 6G networks?
It is expected that AI will be used in 6G networks for the following purposes:
- Network optimization
- Predictive maintenance
- Dynamic spectrum management
- Resource allocation
- Enhancing QoS (Quality of Service) and QoE (Quality of Experience)
What about private 6G networks?
Much like private 5G, it is expected that enterprises will utilize private 6G networks for specific use cases that require wide area connectivity (particularly outdoor), high-speed mobility, and predictable QoS. Vendors and providers will likely begin offering private 6G solutions once commercial deployments of 6G have begun.
Is 6G the same thing as 6 GHz?
No. 6GHz refers to the frequency band utilized in Wi-Fi 6E standard networks.
