The Road to 6G: What’s Next for Telecommunications?
Exploring the future of ultra-fast connectivity beyond 5G
The transition from 4G to 5G marked a significant leap in cellular network technology, with advancements increasing download speeds by 100 times [1].
However, despite the promise that 5G would deliver a faster interconnected network, uptake in the UK has been relatively subdued. Investment and planning permission delays have resulted in persistent challenges in coverage, adoption, and clear use cases.
Now, attention is turning toward 6G - the next generation of wireless technology expected to be available to users in 2030. Over the next 5 years global mobile data traffic is expected to more than double, resulting in an increased need for 6G [2].
While it is still early days, there is a growing consensus that 6G will not just improve speed, but revolutionise how we experience connectivity. To ensure its successful implementation, we will need to embrace advancements in technology and ensure 6G has widespread coverage.
What Technologies Will Power 6G?
Advancements in technology will allow 6G to improve speed, connectivity and use cases.
Speed:
Just as 5G pushed boundaries by using millimetre-wave spectrum, 6G is predicted to push it even further into the terahertz (THz) range. A recent test by a consortium of Japanese companies achieved a transfer speed of 100 gigabits per second (Gbps), up to 20 times faster than 5G [3]. Some forecasts predict peak speeds of 1000 Gbps and a drop in latency to 0.1 milliseconds, making communication nearly instantaneous [4].
Increased Connectivity:
While 5G marked an advancement in connectivity, its high frequency wavelengths meant that the cost to roll it out resulted in a spending growth that outpaced revenue growth for mobile operators [5].
6G however, can utilise advancements in technology to avoid this pitfall. AI integration should optimise network management, improving efficiency and user experience. In addition, small satellite constellations such as Starlink and Eutelsat will facilitate the use of limited low- and mid-band spectrum supply to address traffic demand issues and ensure ‘hard-to-reach’ areas have access to 6G.
Clear Use Cases:
5G lacked a clear use case, there wasn’t a “killer application” that made 5G indispensable to businesses and the public. Recent technology developments could change this. Applications such as fully immersive XR environments, real-time industrial digital twins and autonomous vehicles will all require the speed and connectivity delivered by 6G.
Can the UK compete on the global 6G stage?
The UK’s performance in rolling out 5G has been mixed. Despite early ambitions, the rollout of 5G was slow. A report from the Financial Times in 2023 found that amongst the G7 countries the UK has one of the least reliable mobile networks [6]. Considering this, there is concern that the UK will struggle to secure nationwide adoption of 6G.
However, the UK Government has committed over £100 million to the research and development of 6G, including the launch of three research hubs focused on future telecoms. These initiatives, announced in late 2023, are designed to ensure that the UK is not left behind.
Building a Smarter, More Inclusive Future
Advancements in technology and the Government’s investment into the research and development of 6G bodes well for the future. If high-speed connectivity remains a priority, it is likely to be a good thing for the UK telecoms industry and its customers.
Deecon has extensive experience in fibre and mobile telecommunications, having led many projects across the telecoms sector. Please explore our case studies to find out more about the projects we’ve been involved in and if you think your organisation could benefit from Deecon’s expertise please get in touch.
Words by Euan Merrilees
Edited by Anna Pringle