While 6G work is still heavily research-focused, a shift toward development is anticipated in the coming years. The first implementable 6G standard is projected for completion no earlier than March 2029, leaving a significant runway for progress. The list of enabling technologies continues to evolve as new research, early development, and trials validate or challenge their feasibility. Here, we highlight promising technologies likely to remain integral to 6G and others that may face commercialization challenges. So, now let us see 6G in 2025 from Research to Development along with User-friendly LTE RF drive test tools in telecom & RF drive test software in telecom and User-friendly 5g tester, 5G test equipment, 5g network tester tools in detail.
Promising 6G Technologies
7-16GHz Mobile Terrestrial Radio Systems
Spectrum availability remains the cornerstone of wireless technology. With growing data demands, the 7-16 GHz band is gaining attention for potential repurposing, despite its current use in navigation, radar, and satellite systems. Challenges include:
- Regulatory restrictions: Heavy government and defense usage globally.
- Propagation loss: Higher frequencies experience greater signal attenuation.
To address these issues, researchers are exploring shared spectrum usage policies and advanced integrated radio and antenna systems. Overcoming propagation loss without drastically reducing cell sizes requires innovation in next-generation MIMO systems (discussed below).
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI, specifically Machine Learning (ML), is pivotal for optimizing network performance, managing radio beams, enhancing circuit designs, and reducing power consumption. Unlike large-language models (LLMs), telecommunications ML focuses on technical data from networks, simulations, and emulations. Key challenges include:
- Ensuring reliable models that outperform conventional methods.
- Accessing and validating large volumes of trusted data for training and testing.
Next-Generation MIMO
Multiple Input/Multiple Output (MIMO) technology enhances signal-to-noise ratios by utilizing multiple antenna elements and advanced digital signal processing (DSP). For 6G, MIMO faces added complexity:
- Operating in the 7-16 GHz range requires more antenna elements and distributed systems.
- Real-time channel state information and stronger DSP capabilities are essential.
- ML could play a critical role in managing this increased complexity.
Open RAN
Open RAN disaggregates the Radio Access Network (RAN) into standardized components (radio unit, digital unit, centralized unit) and interfaces, enabling virtualization. Key advancements include:
- RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC): Leveraging ML for enhanced functionality.
- Interoperability: Moving beyond proprietary systems to foster innovation and flexibility.
Technologies with Higher Commercial Risk
Millimeter-Wave Technology (24-71 GHz)
Despite being part of 5G, millimeter-wave technology has struggled to achieve profitability due to high costs and a lack of compelling use cases. Nevertheless, its vast capacity potential may still play a role in 6G, especially as demand for spectrum continues to grow.
Integrated Terrestrial and Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN)
Combining terrestrial networks with satellite and high-altitude platforms (HAPS) offers enhanced coverage and reliability. Challenges include:
- Long-distance signal transmission (hundreds of kilometers).
- Managing interference and data traffic across diverse networks.
- Adapting existing systems to three-dimensional transmission models.
While promising for disaster management and remote areas, the business model for mobile operators remains unclear.
Integrated Sensing and Communications (ISAC)
Using communication signals for environmental sensing has potential applications in traffic and crowd management. However, significant hurdles exist:
- Signal frequency, wavelength, and bandwidth must balance sensing precision and communication needs.
- Shared resources introduce capacity trade-offs and interference challenges.
Technologies with Uncertain Commercialization
Reflective Intelligent Surfaces (RIS)
RIS aims to improve indoor and outdoor signal propagation using intelligent wall-mounted surfaces. Challenges include making these systems cost-effective, reliable, and adaptable to environmental changes.
SubTHz Technology (>100 GHz)
While SubTHz frequencies offer enormous bandwidth, their commercial viability remains limited due to high costs and technical complexity. Current use cases are largely niche, such as point-to-point backhaul links.
The Road Ahead
As 6G research transitions into development, the industry will navigate numerous technical and commercial challenges. While some technologies hold clear promise, others face significant hurdles before they can achieve widespread adoption. By addressing these issues head-on, 2025 will mark a pivotal year in shaping the future of 6G.
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Raymond Bilger