It is the planned successor to 5G (ITU-R IMT-2020), and is currently in the early stages of the standardization process, tracked by the ITU-R as IMT-2030[1] with the framework and overall objectives defined in recommendation ITU-R M.2160-0.[2][3] Similar to previous generations of the cellular architecture, standardization bodies such as 3GPP and ETSI, as well as industry groups such as the NGMN Alliance, are expected to play a key role in its development.[4][5][6]
6G networks will likely be significantly faster than previous generations,[14] thanks to further improvements in radio interface modulation and coding techniques,[2] as well as physical-layer technologies.[15] Proposals include a ubiquitous connectivity model which could include non-cellular access such as satellite and WiFi, precise location services, and a framework for distributed edge computing supporting more sensor networks, AR/VR and AI workloads.[5] Other goals include network simplification and increased interoperability, lower latency, and energy efficiency.[2][16] It should enable network operators to adopt flexible decentralized business models for 6G, with local spectrum licensing, spectrum sharing, infrastructure sharing, and intelligent automated management. Some have proposed that machine-learning/AI systems can be leveraged to support these functions.[17][18][19][16][20]
The NGMN alliance have cautioned that "6G must not inherently trigger a hardware refresh of 5G RAN infrastructure", and that it must "address demonstrable customer needs".[16] This reflects industry sentiment about the cost of the 5G rollout, and concern that certain applications and revenue streams have not lived up to expectations.[21][22][23] 6G is expected to begin rolling out in the early 2030s,[14][22][24] but given such concerns it is not yet clear which features and improvements will be implemented first.
^"IMT towards 2030 and beyond". ITU – International Telecommunications Union. International Telecommunications Union (published November 2023). 2023. Archived from the original on April 3, 2024.
^"Introduction to 3GPP Release 19 and 6G Planning". 3GPP – 3rd Generation Partnership Project. Archived from the original on April 3, 2024. In 2024, 3GPP is poised to finalize its specification efforts for Release 18, focusing on 5G Advanced systems, while making major progress in the development of Release 19. 3GPP will also prepare for the transition to 6G standardization.
^ abc"6G Position Statement"(PDF). NGMN - Next Generation Mobile Networks Alliance. November 9, 2023. Archived(PDF) from the original on April 3, 2024.