6G lays the foundation for a global intelligent mobile network.
6G promises speeds of 1 Tbps, ultra-low latency, and the ability to connect tens of billions of devices, laying the foundation for a global intelligent mobile network.
Quick summary:
6G achieves speeds of 1 Tbps, latency of 1 microsecond, and supports 40 billion IoT devices.
Utilizing the FR3 frequency spectrum, AI integration optimizes network resource utilization.
MediaTek leads the way with AI modems, NR-NTN solutions, and the UAC 3.0 security standard.
Europe is being cautious, while the US and China are proactively deploying and researching 6G.
6G: 2000 times faster than 5G
If 5G has changed the way the world connects, then 6G will continue to push the boundaries with superior speed, reliability, and coverage. The 6G standardization process officially began in December 2023, when the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) announced the standard framework and radio interface, with the goal of completing the technical specifications by the end of 2030.
3GPP is collaborating with ITU-R WP 5D to develop detailed specifications, aiming for a next generation of networks that are not only faster but also smarter.
Key features of 6G
Speed:Up to 1 Tbps, 2,000 times faster than current 5G speeds (100-500 Mbps).
Latency:Just 1 microsecond, 1,000 times faster than the target for 5G.
Connect:Supporting a massive number of IoT devices, projected to reach 40 billion by 2030.
Spectral efficiency:Optimizing with AI and leveraging the higher frequency spectrum of 5G to increase network resource efficiency.
These factors will pave the way for applications such as 3D telepresence, real-time task AI, and process monitoring requiring immediate feedback.
Core technology and why it matters
FR3 frequency spectrum (7-24 GHz): Balances coverage, capacity, and high speed, supporting new applications without significant transmission loss.
Satellite support (NTN/D2D): Allows the device to connect directly to a satellite, maintaining service anywhere.
AI & Machine Learning: From network traffic optimization and fraud detection to Agentic AI, a software agent that automates, plans, and processes complex tasks.
MediaTek: Preparing for the 6G Era
As the largest smartphone chip manufacturer, MediaTek has been an early adopter of integrating AI into 5G modems, pioneering NTN connectivity and optimizing power consumption.
Notable changes:
AI in modems:Increase antenna performance by 3dB, boosting throughput by 30%.
NR-NTN solution:Successful testing of satellite broadband connectivity at MWC 2023.
UAC 3.0:Unified access control standards, enhanced security thanks to AI, improved authentication, and the potential of blockchain technology.
A global perspective on 6G.
Europe:Cautious investment is key, with the view that 6G should be a software upgrade of 5G to reduce infrastructure costs.
China:Focus on practical applications, especially combining 6G with AI processing capabilities in data centers.
America:With the widespread deployment of 5G SA, T-Mobile is showing enthusiasm for 6G, having already achieved nationwide 5G-Advanced coverage.
Despite many uncertainties, the foundation of 6G will revolve around NTN satellite networks, deeply integrated AI, and energy-saving technologies. MediaTek currently leads in many key areas, ready for the new global mobile network standard.
