Ever-Present Intelligent Communication

In 2020, we have so far seen a strong expansion of 5G happening throughout the world, with networks providing new communication capabilities and services that are set to transform society. As we continue to witness this success, we should remember that the first steps toward 5G were taken a decade ago even as 4G was just being rolled out and while it was still hard to identify needs beyond that time.

There is no doubt that the ongoing transformation will eventually give rise to challenges beyond what 5G can meet. In 2030, for instance, society will have been shaped by 5G for 10 years, and new needs and services will have appeared. Even with the built-in flexibility of 5G, we are beginning to see the horizon where further capabilities are needed. This calls for continued evolution — following the pull from society’s needs and the push from more advanced technological tools becoming available — that must be addressed for a 6G era around 2030.