6G
The next mobile generation, planned for around 2030 — still research, and already subject to the same overselling as 5G.
Mobile generations have arrived roughly every ten years, and 6G follows the schedule. The ITU adopted a vision statement in 2023 and 3GPP's technical work is under way, with first specifications expected around 2028. Candidate technologies include terahertz frequencies, integrated sensing where the network also acts as radar, and machine learning built into the radio layer.
Scepticism is warranted. 5G's promises of factory automation and self-driving cars materialised only partially, and operators have struggled to justify the investment. A recurring proposal is therefore that 6G should be less about peak speed and more about energy efficiency and coverage.