"I think the key thing with 6G is, and I think this is quite refreshing, is that it's going to be a network of networks, an amalgam of complementary technologies," says Stephen Douglas, head of market strategy for Spirent, a U.K.-based provider of automated testing and assurance solutions. "In addition to having a macro terrestrial network, you're potentially going to have these body area networks where humans are part of it as well." Douglas adds it is likely 6G will allow the interlinking of wireless networks with satellite, drone, maritime, and fiber-linked networks, resulting in a fully connected ecosystem.
From body-area-networks to satellite connections
What seems to be coming in the next evolution of mobile networks is an alignment and seamless handoff between low-power or high data rate close-in networks to broad area networks. It will be a combination of standards that drive this capability.
Let’s hope it doesn’t turn into the mess that USB-C seems to be turning into.