techUK contributes to Parliamentary research on the future of 6G

Early in December 2024, the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST) published a research briefing on 6G mobile technology. POST is a research and knowledge exchange service within the UK Parliament, committed to ensuring that the legislative process and Government scrutiny are informed by the best available research evidence and information.

The research gathered inputs from interviews, and it was peer reviewed by representatives of academic institutions, and commercial and stakeholder organisations. These insights were aligned into eight key points for consideration by members of parliament from both Houses.

What drives 6G development?

Several factors justify the research to upgrade network technology. Due to more reliable and efficient data transmission, 6G can support the advance of other technologies, such as robotics and extended reality. For mobile network operators (MNOs), 6G has the potential to increase returns on investment. It is also considered to reduce the digital divide.

Looking at the future roll out of 6G technology, several use cases have been flagged as potential applications of enhanced network capability. With more responsiveness, data transfer capacity and security, use cases span from integrating sensing mechanisms into the wider telecommunications network for more precise positioning for IoT, autonomous vehicles and robotics. Similarly, digital twins powered by 6G technology can optimize energy supply and transport systems, as well as virtual reality capabilities that could impact sectors, such as communications, education, and healthcare.

The next generation of mobile communications will follow the standardisation process set by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) by 2030. That process considers KPIs, including speed, capacity, and latency. Developing the standards to deploy 6G networks, will require the agreement upon the extent of improvements seen under all these KPIs.

As depicted in the 2023 Wireless Infrastructure Strategy, the UK Government plans to deploy 6G considering other indicators, such as interoperability, secure by design, sustainability, and accessibility. According to the Government’s strategy for 6G, it shall incorporate multiple technologies, create trusted networks, be energy efficient, and connect terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks extending coverage to all.

With £100 million invested by 2025, the aim is to make the UK a leader in shaping and implementing 6G. These objectives are in line with the establishment of the Global Coalition on Telecommunications with the US, Australia, Japan and Canada. The development of 6G technology could also have ties with Horizon Europe funding streams.

Global standards and the role of the UK

The UK’s influence on international standards is relatively limited. However, the DSIT 6G strategy highlights opportunities for spin-outs, licensing agreements, and broader economic growth through the equitable and non-discriminatory use of essential telecommunications patents. Notably, the strategy does not outline a deployment plan, instead proposing a stakeholder governance framework involving both public and private sectors.

The 6G signal is expected to primarily utilize a mix of radio waves and higher-frequency microwaves, potentially incorporating other segments of the electromagnetic spectrum, such as visible light. Nationally, allocating higher frequencies for 6G will need to consider potential sharing arrangements with military users. While higher bands may offer capacity gains, Ofcom must study all potential frequency bands for 6G networks. Additionally, the physical infrastructure required for 6G deployment will demand coordination with local councils for building permissions and planning for base stations and microcells.

Currently, there are no legislated user standards for 5G or 6G wireless mobile networks, unlike broadband, though Ofcom monitors coverage and speeds every year in the Connected Nations report. Additionally, the electromagnetic spectrum faces threats from both natural phenomena, such as space weather, which could disrupt mobile networks, and non-natural risks like electronic warfare and jamming.

Mobile networks are increasingly shifting from hardware to software through virtualization, which reduces costs, improves adaptability, and facilitates upgrades. AI is expected to be fully integrated into 6G networks, enabling self-learning and management, potentially lowering costs and enhancing operations and security. However, the exact approach to AI integration is unclear, with ongoing research addressing energy consumption, security risks, and large-scale testing. AI-powered networks also raise broader ethical and policy considerations, including compliance with data protection laws.

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