The IEEE Communications Technology News (CTN) has a tradition of beginning each year by forecasting the technological trends that will shape the telecommunications sector. While past predictions have seen varied success, the editorial team’s reflections have provided valuable insights into the industry’s evolving dynamics. Notably, their previous foresight into AI’s ascendancy and the seamless integration of IoT into daily life underscored their deep understanding of technology’s trajectory. In a departure from its customary predictions, the 2024 January edition of CTN instead shines a spotlight on a contribution to the field of wireless communication: an article by Mikko A. Uusitalo of Nokia, Finland, Hamed Farhadi and Patrik Rugeland of Ericsson, Sweden, and Mauro Boldi of TIM, Italy detailing the Hexa-X and Hexa-X-II projects, which are at the forefront of laying the groundwork for 6G technology.
The Core of 6G Exploration
The Hexa-X project and its successor, Hexa-X-II, embody Europe’s strategic efforts to spearhead the research and development of 6G. These initiatives aim to address and surpass the limitations of current and emerging technologies by focusing on critical areas such as trustworthiness, inclusiveness, and sustainability. This aligns with the broader vision of 6G to enhance performance metrics and incorporate value-based requirements into the fabric of future communication systems.
The Impetus Behind 6G
The discussion on 6G in the article brings to light the imperative need for a generational leap in cellular technologies. With an ever-increasing demand for more sophisticated and diverse use cases, 6G is envisioned to enhance network performance and integrate ethical standards and societal values. This dual focus aims to ensure that the next wave of communication technologies benefits all sectors of society while addressing the limitations of current networks.
Global Initiatives Toward 6G
The article provides a comprehensive overview of the international efforts to steer the 6G research and development agenda, emphasising Europe’s leadership through the Hexa-X and Hexa-X-II projects. This global perspective underlines the collaborative nature of 6G development, involving various stakeholders from industry and academia. Such cooperation is pivotal for harmonising technological advancements with the broader objectives of inclusivity, sustainability, and trust.
A Visionary Outlook for 6G
Envisaging a future where the digital, physical, and human realms are seamlessly interconnected, the Hexa-X and Hexa-X II projects aim to unlock many new use cases and services. Breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, network architectures, and communication protocols support this vision.
The overarching goal is to cultivate a technological ecosystem that is both advanced, ethically aligned, and socially beneficial.
By focusing on the Hexa-X and Hexa-X II projects, the CTN article sheds light on the multifaceted approach to developing 6G technology, emphasising its potential to transform connectivity while adhering to sustainability, inclusivity, and trustworthiness principles. These initiatives are not just about pushing the boundaries of technology; they are about ensuring that future networks address the nuanced needs of society and the environment.
Read the full article Looking Back to Our Predictions and Looking Ahead to the Future.