Task management and control functions; integrated sensors and communication; reduced energy footprint, more reliable infrastructure; and, above all, scalability and affordability are some of the key features of 6G.
Carlos J. Bernardos, Vice President of 5TONIC, the open research laboratory for innovation in 5G technology, has collaborated on a new White Paper, which has already become available, “European Vision for the 6G Network Ecosystem” by the “European Association of Smart Networks and Services (SNS) Partnership” within the Horizon Europe programme.
Following the publication of this White Paper, the 5G IA (5G Infrastructure Association), representing the private side of the 5G public-private partnership, 5GPPP is paving the way for a breakthrough in mobile communications. The partnership will seek to bring about the digital and green transition and help European countries develop the technological foundations for future 6G services.
Carlos Bernardos, VP of 5TONIC, said: «6G is expected to play a major role in society over the next decade, where the line between the digital and physical world will become increasingly thinner. Moreover, 6G will serve to achieve the goals set by the European Green Deal to reach climate neutrality for the continent by 2050 while contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.»
“European Vision for the 6G Network Ecosystem” was developed as a reference point, leading the way towards the definition and standardization of 6G for the sectors involved in mobile communication and technology, without dismissing the users who will profit from its advantages.
The main features of 6G will revolve around control and task management functions, which will be executed through intelligent connections; integrated sensors and communication; reduced energy footprint; more reliable infrastructure; and, specifically, scalability and affordability. In addition, this White Paper also raises potential challenges which must be considered, opportunities that can be seized, and outlines specific recommendations to governments and businesses. The analysis outlines a scenario which reflects the European vision of what 6G should be and provides a roadmap to get us there.
«Digital technologies are currently consolidated as an essential tool for guaranteeing the sovereignty of countries, something that the pandemic has brought to light«, says Bernardos. In this context, it is a matter of promoting the development of technologies that meet the continent’s economic and social goals and Europe’s political interests and values. Therefore, developing secure and reliable 6G infrastructures in our territory must be prioritised to ensure European autonomy in technological terms while safeguarding the values of privacy, trust, transparency, accountability, and security that are critical to social interests.
About 5TONIC
5TONIC was founded by Telefónica and IMDEA Institute Networks with a clear vision to create an open laboratory research and innovation ecosystem where industry and academia come together to drive technology and innovative companies. The lab promotes the development of joint projects, joint business projects, discussion forums, events, and conference venues, all in a high-impact international environment. 5TONIC serves to showcase the capabilities and interoperability of pre-commercial 5G equipment, services, and applications by the world’s leading companies in the 5G space. The lab was recently awarded Digital Innovation Hub status by the European Commission.