Building the Foundations of 6G: Inside the Creation of the Next Generation of Networks

The Long Road to 6G

The journey to 6G has already begun. Although commercial deployment is expected around the end of this decade, the foundations are being laid today by thousands of researchers, engineers, and standardisation experts worldwide.

Developing a new generation of mobile networks is not a single technological leap, but rather a long, coordinated process that involves both innovation and consensus.

Research and Innovation at the Core

Before a single product reaches the market, years of research projects, simulation studies and early prototypes establish the feasibility of new concepts. In 6G, these include the integration of artificial intelligence at the network level, the use of sub-terahertz spectrum, and the potential convergence of communication and sensing.

These early investigations determine not only what is technically possible, but also what can be achieved efficiently and sustainably at scale.

The Crucial Role of Standardisation

At the same time, the international standardisation community plays a decisive role. Within 3GPP and related organisations, delegates from industry, academia and research institutions collaborate to define the technical specifications that will make 6G interoperable, secure and globally scalable.

Each contribution, study item and discussion helps shape the features that will eventually reach billions of users. This consensus-building process ensures that 6G can function seamlessly across borders and technologies.

Policy, Spectrum and Global Strategy

Beyond the technical layer, the creation of 6G requires strategic alignment between governments, regulators and industry leaders. Spectrum allocation, environmental considerations and digital inclusion policies will determine not only how 6G performs, but also how equitably it benefits society.

National and regional 6G initiatives are already forming to coordinate this alignment and ensure that innovation is matched by responsible policy.

From Vision to Reality

6G will not emerge fully formed. It will be the product of years of meticulous research, open collaboration and informed negotiation. As discussions intensify and early testbeds evolve, one truth remains clear: building the next generation of networks begins with those who define its foundations today.