Why do we need 6G?

Abstract

The study and design of 5G seems to have reached its end and 5G communication systems are currently under deployment. In parallel, 5G standardization is as Release 16, which is going to complete the definition and the design guidelines of the 5G radio access network. Because of that, the interest of the scientific and industrial communities has already started focusing on the future 6G communication networks. The preliminary definition of future technology trends towards 2030, given by major standardization bodies, and the flagship 6G projects worldwide have started proposing various visions about what 6G will be. Side by side, various scientific articles, addressing the initial characterisation of 6G, have also been published. However, considering the promises of 5G, can 6G represent a significant technological advancement to justify a so-called new generation? In fact, now, 5G softwarized networks may just imply continuous network software upgrades (as it happens for the Internet) instead of new generations every ten years. This article starts describing the main characteristics that made 5G a breakthrough in telecommunications, also briefly introducing the network virtualisation and computing paradigms that have reformed telecommunications. Next, by providing rigorous definition of the terminology and a survey of the principal 6G visions proposed, the paper tries to establish important motivations and characteristics that can really justify the need for and the novelty of future 6G communication networks.

Integrating Quantum Synchronization in Future Generation Networks

“…Quantum particles synchronize their phase oscillation frequencies with themselves or an external reference in quantum synchronization 21 . For a qubit, we can observe these phase rotations on a Bloch sphere as shown in This high-precision synchronization is critical for applications on 6G networks, as even little differences can significantly influence network performance 22 . As a result, incorporating quantum synchronization can provide a substantial leap in network technology.…”

Large-Scale Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything Deployments Based on 5G—Critical Challenges, Solutions, and Vision towards 6G: A Survey

“…The roadmap of 5G-Advanced (or beyond 5G) continues with Release 19 and Release 20 by the 3GPP. Nevertheless, in line with that, ETSI [ 77 ], ITU [ 67 ], and the 5GIA (5G Infrastructure Association) [ 118 ] are placing their recommendations as well.…”

Network Time Synchronization as a Quantum Physical Layer Service

“…In essence, PLSI is a crucial enabler for future networks, as it helps overcome design limitations and integrate functionalities traditionally handled by higher network layers. This integration allows us to achieve ultra-low latency targets of less than 1 ms for applications that require real-time responsiveness [4].…”

“…Integrating PLSI at lower layers, such as the physical layer, can accurately synchronize the timing of data transmissions, minimize delays, and reduce synchronization offsets. In turn, it improves the Quality-of-Service (QoS) experienced by applications, enabling them to operate with greater efficiency, lower latency, and enhanced reliability [4]. For this study, we explore the effects of current synchronization methods, such as Precision Time Protocol (PTP), on synchronization offset concerning latency and reliability.…”