Intensifying its effect to bring nothing but the best, the telecom industry is revamping its core to revolutionize communication. This fast-paced industry is changing the narrative with advanced 6G wireless technology, which assures exceptional speed and unmatched efficiency.
Although the 6G internet is still nascent, it will be fascinating to explore various facets of this rapidly growing technology, which is 1,000 times faster, i.e., 1/1000th the latency than that of a millisecond! The 6G wireless technology is expected to pave the way for a wide array of industry verticals like imaging, XR (Extended Reality), BCI (Brain-computer interface), sensors DLT devices, etc.
As the 6G network has immense potential and astonishing applications, exploring this significant wireless technology would be interesting. Let’s get into this topic and find out –
- What is a 6G network? What are the different features of a 6G network?
- What is the difference between 5G and 6G networks?
- What are the benefits of a 6G network?
- Why is 6G necessary?
Let’s understand about 6G and find out more about the same.
Table of Contents
What is a 6G Network?
6G wireless technology is a successor to 5G wireless technology. While 5G promises blistering speed, uninterrupted connectivity, and seamless conversations, 6G networks, on the other hand, leave no stone unturned to take all this to a whole new level!
To be precise, 6G networks are one step ahead with higher frequencies, higher capacity, and much lower latencies. The aim of the 6G technology is to offer 1000 times faster microseconds latency, which will enhance the level of communication. 6G network resonates with –
- Lightning speed
- Ultra-low latency
- Energy efficiency & Connectivity
- Holographic communication
How Will 6G Network Work?
This new generation technology is expected to open untapped frequencies to ensure low latency communication using cognitive media like AI and is much faster than the fifth generation. Knowing this, it must be understood that every generation of mobile technology presents an upgraded version in terms of digital coding and broader airwave bands. Hence, the same is expected out of a 6G speed. However, how this network will work is still a mystery!
A report titled “6G The Next Hyper-Connected Experience for All” mentions that the International Telecommunication Union will write a 6G mission statement by 2021 and the standard is estimated to be finished by 2028, by the time 6G devices will be available. By 2030, the deployment will be omnipresent.
Although the exact functioning of the 6G internet is still unknown as the work is already being done, we have a list of things one can expect regarding functionalities.
Tap the Potential of Free Spectrum
It is well-known that 5G technology supports frequencies up to 1000 GHz but what about frequencies way beyond them? Through 6G technology, these new avenues are expected to be unfolded. Frequency waves in the range of hundred gigahertz (GHz) and terahertz (THz), which are minute, frail yet untapped fractions that hold the immense potential of astonishing data transfer speeds!
Improve Efficiency
Currently, the communication or transmission/reception is done on a particular frequency at the same time, i.e., Frequency Division Duplex or (FDD) and Time Division Duplex or (TDD) for two-way communication. However, in the future, using 6G speed, this can be done by improving the efficiency of the current spectrum so that transmission and reception can be done simultaneously.
Mesh Networking
6G network offers immense opportunities to explore the arena of mesh networking. Through this, data can be used exponentially, and coverage can be expanded by using other devices as amplifiers. The process can be used efficiently to make the best use of mesh networking.
Integration With New IP
A lot of research is being done, and the advanced 6G technology is expected to be fast, reliable, and make navigation as quick as a courier service, i.e., a step ahead of the 5G technology, which is like snail mail. This comparison was made in a research paper at the University of Oulu. The current IP packet in IPv4 or IPv6 will be upgraded to fulfill all expectations.
All these functionalities depend on how the 5G technology expands to new, higher frequencies and produces electromagnetic radiation that can be exploited to do innumerable actions.
Interesting Read: 3G Switch off – What is it and is it time for 4G/5G?
What is the Difference Between 5G & 6G?
Both 5G and 6G technologies have made revolutionary changes in the telecom industry, and each has pros and cons. While it is always good to move with the advancements in the industry, it is more important to understand the scope and limitations so that the technologies can be used to extract the best of their potential.
We’ve charted out the main difference between 6G and 5G internet.
| Factors | 5G | 6G |
| Spectrum Usage | Uses mid-band spectrum | Transport more data in less time without interruption Smoother, uninterrupted connectivity Greater bandwidth capacity |
| Speed | Better speed than 3G, 4G, and 4G LTE | 100 times faster than 5G (theoretically) |
| Applications | Healthcare, logistics, shipping, autonomous driving, etc. | More data-intensive applications, like smart home appliances, virtual reality, healthcare, industrial revolution, virtual reality, finance, retail, etc. |
| Advancement in lOT | Lower latency with the scope of constant improvements | Low latency connections Handle more data at a time without compromising speed Seamless experience as compared to a 5G connection |
| Latency | With blistering fast speed, the latency is lower than the previous generation networks. | Lower latency than 4G LTE Shorter response than 5G Higher frequency band on wireless spectrum Quick transmission time |
| Security | Better than 4G, 4G LTE networks | Due to a wider bandwidth, the threat to security is much higher as compared to 5G |
Key Benefits of 6G over 5G?
Although 5G technology is making waves in every sphere, you still look for an advanced version that fulfills the limitations of the previous one. With a wider bandwidth, innumerable applications, and vast implications in various industries, 6G technology is here to make waves. 6G technology can be used in many ways, to name a few-
- Health monitoring
- Threat detection
- Air quality measures
- Sensory interface
- Law enforcement organizations and social credit system
6G technology can be used extensively to aid –
Technology Convergence
With a wide bandwidth, there is a huge possibility to integrate different technologies to deliver an excellent application that offers immense benefits. For instance, data analytics and cybersecurity, etc., can be used dynamically with the help of a 6G network.
Deployment of Edge Computing
By doing this, one can ensure a great output in addition to a low latency, ultra-reliable communication network.
8 Unique Features of 6G Network
Switching from a 5G network to a 6G technology is a slow and gradual process; however, 6G will take the technological scene to new heights once done. Here are the top 8 features of 6G technology that make it unique-
Spectrum Band
Spectrum band plays a great role in communication as everything is done using a radio wave frequency. 6G will make use of the mid-bands 7-20 GHz and allow low bands 460-694 MHz, and sub-bands between 90 GHz and 300 GHz to surpass a speed of approximately 100 Gbps through the Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO).
Superfast Data Transfer Speed
The 5G network offers an estimated output of 20Gbps and a data rate of 100 Mbps. 6G is expected to surpass this by offering a data rate of 1 Tbps. This means that the spectral efficiency of 6G is almost double that of the 5G.
Ultra-low Latency
With advancements in technology, you can expect low latency with every generation. When it comes to latency, even the minutest change matters! The 6G network is expected to decrease the latency to less than 0.1 milliseconds, which will drastically affect the performance of many real-time applications.
Higher Support of M2M (Machine-to-Machine) Connection
Taking one step ahead of the 5G technology that focuses on the Internet of Things (IoT) and human users, 6G technology will focus more on machine-to-machine connections in addition to capturing approximately 10 million linked devices per square kilometer. In a 5G network, one million devices are connected per square kilometer, which got extended from the previous generation 4G network that connected 100, 000 devices per square kilometer. This progression paves a great way for the upcoming technologies.
Energy Efficiency on the Forefront
6G requires a broader bandwidth and higher/stronger radio frequencies to function properly. However, the foundational technology, i.e., the chip, is not yet designed to function properly to work in an energy-efficient way. Hence, the research and new developments in the 6G internet will surely be a game-changer!
Highly Reliable Network
Paving in the way for Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communication (URLLC) in the 6G network, 5G technology will soon be extended to offer an uninterrupted communication network with ultra-low latency, device-to-device connectivity, multiple transmissions simultaneously, and much more! The machine-to-machine connection will further enhance the dependability of the network by reducing the error rate.
Extended Logistics
To make the most of applications offered by 6G, it is imperative to have a smooth architecture to support the Radio Access Network (RAN) in corporate and industrial settings. It is designed to support 6G so that it is easy to combine private, public, and hybrid settings.
AI and Machine Learning (ML)
The best use of 6G will be Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (ML). It would be interesting to explore the various uses of 6G in these applications as it can change the face of communication and let everyone achieve high efficiency at reduced computation complexity.
Why is 6G Necessary?
6G technology is the need of the hour as it will open new horizons. However, seeing how effortlessly smooth and easy communication will be interesting! Here are some points to ponder over why 6G is necessary.
Enhanced Security
With time, bullying, cybercrimes, and fraud have become common issues. The 6G network is designed to safeguard against threats like jamming, etc. As 6G will be used in various systems in homes, industries, and commercially, it ensures high security, better than that of the networks of previous generations.
Take the 5G Applications to the Next Level
With a broader bandwidth, 6G internet will enhance the capabilities of the 5G network. Many industries, like monitoring, imaging, wireless networking, Orthogonal Frequency-division Multiple Access (OFDMA), etc., can be revolutionized if the latency and speed of transmission and reception is improved drastically. 6G is expected to do this effortlessly!
Network Penetration
The 6G network promises improved bandwidth that allows you to cover a wider area without needing more mobile towers. A 6G network can cover a large area while offering reduced interference and improved services.
Reduced Dependency on Software
Right now, various networks use software-dependent operations. For instance, media access control (MAC) and physical (PHY) layers require special network hardware; however, in the case of 6G networks, these will be virtualized. This reduces software dependency and makes it economical.
When Will 6G come to the UK?
With such high expectations and a lot of potential, everyone is awaiting the arrival of the 6G network. However, if we look at the previous trends, every generation of networks has a gap of a few years. The research and development work of the 6G network started in the year 2020, and it is estimated to be launched by 2030-2035.
As 6G requires a lot of R&D, in Japan, approximately $482 million is being used to expand. In Russia, Europe, and many other countries, much work is being done to unleash the vast potential of 6G.
Takeaway
When it comes to technology, all yes goes to the new developments and dynamic applications that make our lives easier. 6G network is one of the most awaited technologies as it can revamp the course of mobile communication. The best thing about 6G technology is that it promises high capacity, high frequencies, lightning speed, ultra-low latency, and energy efficiency & connectivity.
The 6G network can make a significant change in the field of health monitoring, threat detection, air quality measures, sensory interface, law enforcement organizations, and social credit systems. What makes 6G unique is the wider spectrum band, super-fast data transfer speed, ultra-low latency, reliable network, and AI and machine learning technologies. 6G network is a great step in cellular technology because of the enhanced security, easy network penetration, and reduced dependency on the software.
A lot of research is being done globally so that the maximum potential of 6G technology can be used efficiently. If you are looking for a seamless networking opportunity and are open to artificial intelligence for various verticals of life, get ready to witness the potential of 6G.
FAQS
What is 6G technology?
6G is the sixth generation of cellular technology, which promises ultra-low latency, wider bandwidth, and innumerable applications. Going a step ahead of the 5G technology, this 6G network is expected to offer wider coverage with a wide spectrum of frequencies.
Which country has 6G technology?
Currently, a lot of research has been going on 6G technology across the world. In Japan, around $482 million is being invested in expanding 6G technology. Russia, Europe, and all the other countries are in R&D stage so that the technology can be implemented by the year 2030-2035.
Does 6G technology exist?
After 5G technology, research and development is undergoing for the 6G technology. However, there is a long way to go as the implementation and existence of the 6G internet is estimated to be by the year 2030-2035.
When will 6G come?
6G technology is expected to be implemented by the year 2030-2035 across the world.
