Research topics considered in some of the selected projects include novel 6G system architectures and advanced optical communication technologies
The European Union (EU) has selected 35 research and innovation projects in a call that has the goal of developing 5G systems and promoting research into 6G technology in Europe, according to a release by the 5G Infrastructure Public Private Partnership (5G PPP), a joint initiative between the European Commission and European ICT industry.
With an allocation of 250 million euros ($243 million), the main objective of this aid is to build a European supply chain for advanced 5G systems and to develop Europe’s 6G technological capabilities.
The projects have been selected following the evaluation of proposals submitted under the first call of the EU’s Smart Networks and Services Joint Undertaking (SNS JU).
“The SNS JU aims at reinforcing European leadership in developing and deploying next-generation network technologies, as well as connected devices and services through an ambitious R&I roadmap and a solid deployment agenda,” 5G PPP said. “The R&I projects will develop smart communication components, systems, and networks for 6G following both, an evolutionary path through further enhancements of 5G advanced technology, as well as a more revolutionary path by investigating the benefits of promising technological enablers. Technology validation initiatives will develop SNS experimental infrastructures and carry out large-scale SNS trials and pilots in several business and industrial sectors such as media, industrial IoT, energy, construction, automotive, eHealth, culture, agriculture and education.”
In future 6G systems, the focus is on novel technologies that are expected to be adopted in commercial networks in a mid and/or long-term time period. Research topics considered in the 19 selected projects include, novel 6G system architectures, advanced wireless and optical communication technologies, advances in Non-Terrestrial Networks and secure development of ultra-reliable and low-latency communications (URLLC) applications.
6G-IA: ‘The voice’ of Europe’s advanced networks
The 6G Smart Networks and Services Industry Association (6G-IA), which calls itself “the voice of European industry and research for next generation networks and services,” represents the private side in both the 5G PPP and the Smart Networks and Services Joint Undertaking (SNS JU). In the 5G PPP and SNS JU, the European Commission represents the public side.
6G-IA’s primary objective is to contribute to Europe’s leadership on 5G, 5G evolution and 6G research. It brings together a global industry community of telecoms and digital actors, such as operators, manufacturers, research institutes, universities, verticals, SMEs and ICT associations.
The 6G-IA carries out a wide range of activities in strategic areas including standardization, frequency spectrum, R&D projects, technology skills, collaboration with key vertical industry sectors, notably for the development of trials and international cooperation.
