While technologists and researchers are excited by the possibilities inherent in future generations of telecoms, business leaders are cautious about more demands for up-front investment and uncertain gains. We need new economic and commercial models to ensure the industry thrives; models which don’t wait for 6G but which will enable companies to make the most of new capabilities as they emerge.

To enable this, we need to build a fresh dynamic in telecoms; closer collaboration between technical and commercial leaders to enable a shared understanding of where value may lie in the next generation, what customers in the public sector, enterprises and consumers need and how to deliver those requirements. This generational change is something that goes far beyond pure technology but can and should involve policymakers and regulators; business decision-makers; and operational systems.

The USA has signalled its intention to take a lead in 6G with provisions in, among others, the $280bn CHIPS and Science act. While some of the technology directions for 6G are becoming clearer, reaching those aspirations through the 2020s will be demanding.

Building sound commercial models for 6G and its related services is key to ensuring timely deployments and uptake, which will depend in turn on coordination with regulators and policymakers across multiple domains. We can learn from 5G – such as the crucial role of potential client industries in identifying demand and possible business cases – but there’s more to be done.

So what do we need to do to get beyond the hype and be ready to deliver practical, effective solutions from day one?

At 6GSymposium Fall 2023 we delved into the critical issues across policy, business and tech with more than 60 experts and showcased demonstrations from cutting-edge research. Now you too can access all that material.