Approximately every ten years, the opportunity presents itself to define the next generation of mobile networks. While the roll-out of 5G systems has successfully evolved, with currently more than 200 networks being operational worldwide, the journey of 5G evolution will continue for another eight years with innovations coming as evolutionary steps under the umbrella of 5G Advanced. This will comprise solutions to enhance coverage, user experience, expand beyond connectivity and operational excellence.
Six key technologies will enable the essence of 6G including new spectrum bands and technologies, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) techniques, network-as-a-sensor, extreme networking with ultra-low latency, cognitive automated and specialized architecture, as well as new concepts to assure security and privacy. Finally, one of the most distinct key enablers will be a new 6G architecture as described within the scope of this white paper to help consolidate and integrate 6G technology enablers. 6G offers the opportunity to introduce major innovations without full backward compatibility.
