6G the new successor to 5G

6G, the sixth generation of mobile networks, is still in the research and development phase and is expected to be commercially rolled out around 2030. Although the exact frequencies for 6G have not yet been determined, several extremely high frequency bands are being considered that will enable higher speeds, lower latency, and broader connectivity than 5G.

Terahertz frequencies (THz bands)

Terahertz frequencies (THz) are the most discussed option for 6G. These frequencies lie between 100 GHz and 10 THz and offer extremely high data speeds and low latency. Terahertz frequencies can theoretically support speeds of several terabits per second (Tbps), but coverage is limited to very short distances.

Expected applications of 6G

• Holographic communication: Due to the extremely high speeds of terahertz frequencies, 6G can support holographic and 3D communication.



• Fully integrated AI networks: 6G is expected to deeply integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into the network architecture for automated and intelligent decision-making.

• IoT at scale: 6G can support trillions of IoT devices, with a focus on ultra-low latency and highly reliable connectivity.

Although 6G is still under development, terahertz frequencies (100 GHz to 10 THz) will likely play a key role, with the potential to offer incredibly high data speeds and low latency.

These frequencies are suitable for specific applications, such as very fast wireless networks in urban areas.

In addition, mmWave frequencies and low/mid frequencies will be used to support a wide range of applications, from rural coverage to ultra-fast data networks in urban environments.

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Lage en midden frequenties (onder 6 GHz)

As with previous generations, low and mid frequencies will also be used for 6G for wider coverage and connecting devices over longer distances. This includes frequencies below 6 GHz that are optimized for rural and semi-urban areas.

Optical wireless communication (OWC)

In addition to traditional radio waves, research is also being conducted into the integration of optical wireless communication (OWC), such as Li-Fi, which uses light waves to transmit data. This would be particularly useful for indoor applications and specific industrial environments.

Millimeter wave (mmWave) (30-300 GHz)

Although mmWave is already used in 5G networks (24-39 GHz), 6G is expected to further expand these bands to higher frequencies, up to 100 GHz. This would enable higher data speeds and better performance in areas with high user density, such as urban environments.

Sub-terahertz frequencies

In addition to terahertz frequencies, sub-THz bands (such as 90-300 GHz) are also being investigated as an option for 6G. These frequencies can offer higher speeds than the current 5G mmWave bands, while being more resilient to some of the physical limitations of terahertz frequencies.

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