6G

6G, CPS and edge computing?are essential for the ultimate success of several other emerging technologies and future systems that have yet to be designed or fielded. These technologies solve problems for problem solving applications. Everything from?Autonomous vehicles, complex automated or human machine interaction to simple issues like the weight of a VR headset* or mobile device?are examples of problems solved by these technologies…

• web > https://isparx.group/edt-f1
• pdf > https://isparx.group/s/EDT-1f_version31-A4_240319.pdf

*comment : on the 8th of March 2024 AcademyEX in the first week of the MTF Gen23 Dr Roy Davies demonstrated various VR & AR headsets; the excessive weight of a headset, particularly the Apple Vision Pro was raised as an issue.

6G, CPS and Edge Computing provide a collective solution to the concerns of weight of the headsets. With increased bandwidth, microsecond latency, computational demands at the edge and potentially power systems from the body for devices there is minimal weight in mobile or wearable devices in the 6G era.

This video explores 20 emerging technologies and their future. Other related terms: ai, artificial intelligence, future business tech, future technology, future tech, future business technologies, future technologies, artificial general intelligence, artificial superintelligence, superintelligence, future city, radical life extension, crisp, quantum computer, neuralink, humanoid robot, generative ai, starlink, nanotechnology, smart cities, mixed reality, autonomous vehicles, blockchain, lab grown meat, smart home, fusion power, space tourism, artificial wombs, etc.

play the video → https://youtu.be/SzMiJFOa6w8

WHAT Understanding the Technology

• Brief Description: Start with a simple, concise explanation of the technology. Identify any unique or key features. Consider using visuals i.e. diagrams, infographics, or videos to make this section more understandable. If you borrow these make sure you acknowledge the authors and sources.?
• Development Stage: Provide an overview of the technology's history, current development status, and future projections. Mention key milestones and trends.
• Refer EDT Essentials

what

6G?is a future technology - the 6th generation mobile network standard. 6G will operate on higher frequencies to provide increased bandwidth and micro second latency.

6G is still in a phase of applied research and technology trials, and is not expected to be commercialised until around 2030.

Numerous companies, research institutes, and countries are developing the technical specifications of the first ever 6G standard. This work is expected to begin around 2024, with the first specifications expected in 2028. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/6G)

play the video → (https://youtu.be/-tXZY7knPUo)

Cyber–Physical Systems?(CPS) are integrations of computation with physical processes.

Cyber-physical systems integrate sensing, computation, control and networking into physical objects and infrastructure, connecting them to the Internet and to each other.

While progress has been made in advancing CPS technologies, the demand for innovation across application domains is driving the need to accelerate research to keep pace. (‘How Internet of Things - IoT & Cyber Physical Systems Will Shape The 4th Industrial Revolution’ - Science Time https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1VhO4yGAjyo)

Edge computing?is the process of bringing information storage and computing abilities closer to the devices that produce that information and the users who consume it.

Traditionally, applications have transmitted data from smart devices like sensors and smartphones to a central data centre for processing.

Edge computing addresses challenges such as bandwidth limitations, excess latency and network congestion and there are several additional benefits. (‘What is Edge Computing?’ - Accenture https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WMvb9LLXzUs)

6G, CPS and edge computing are essential for the ultimate success of several other emerging technologies and future systems that have yet to be designed or fielded.? These technologies solve problems for problem solving applications.

(https://hexa-x.eu/about/)

With 2G we had TEXT.

4G was internet & apps.

In the 6G era the digital, physical and human world will seamlessly fuse to trigger extrasensory experiences.

Intelligent knowledge systems will be combined with robust computation capabilities to make humans endlessly more efficient and redefine how we live, work and take care of the planet.

“6G explained” | Nokia) https://www.nokia.com/about-us/newsroom/articles/6g-explained/)

←play the video (https://youtu.be/-tXZY7knPUo)

WHY Purpose and Drivers?

• Problem/Need Addressed: Clearly state the issues or problems the technology aims to solve. Why was this technology developed??
• Drivers of Adoption: Discuss societal, economic, and environmental factors driving the technology's adoption. How do these drivers influence its development and acceptance??
• Target Audience or Sectors: Identify who benefits most from this technology. Is it specific industries, sectors, or the general public??

why

play the video → (https://youtu.be/T6ubRoZCeVw)

Problem/Need Addressed:

The Importance of 6G: Addressing Exponentially Growing Data Demands and Enabling Transformative Technologies

(Ericsson Mobility Report Q4 Update February 2020 https://www.ericsson.com/assets/local/reports-papers/mobility-report/documents/2019/ericsson-mobility-report-q4-2019-update.pdf)

The exponential demand of data consumption fuelled by ubiquitous internet access, the Internet of Things (IoT), and the development of bandwidth thirsty applications requires a huge improvement in network capability.? There is a need to explore key drivers behind the development of 6G, the next significant paradigm shift in mobile communication.

Problem Statement: Network Data Demands Will Exceed Capacity by 2030.

Existing 5G networks are expected to reach capacity by 2030. The exponential increase in traffic by factors such as video streaming, cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT) strains existing infrastructure. This data flood demands a significant improvement in network capacity and transfer speeds to ensure seamless connectivity and to support the ever-growing data appetites of users and emerging technologies.

Next generation technologies like Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) will exacerbate pressure on existing networks as these applications require ultra-low latency, high bandwidth, and reliable connections for real-time processing and immersive experiences – capabilities beyond the current limitations of 5G networks.

Drivers of 6G Adoption: A Convergence of Innovation

Latva-aho,?M. &?Lepp?nen, K.,?(Eds.).?(2019).?Key Drivers and Research Challenges for 6G Ubiquitous Wireless Intelligence.?6G Research Visions, No.?1. University of Oulu.?https://urn.fi/urn:isbn:9789526223544

Yrj?l?, S., Ahokangas, P., Matinmikko-Blue, M. (2024). Future Scenarios and Anticipated Impacts of 6G. In: Ahokangas, P., Aagaard, A. (eds) The Changing World of Mobile Communications. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-33191-6_3

The development and adoption of 6G technology are driven by a confluence of societal, economic and environmental factors:

Societal Drivers:

• Digital Divide: 6G has the potential to bridge the digital divide particularly in underserved rural and remote areas and communities. Providing ubiquitous and high speed internet access facilitates greater access to information, education, and services.
• Public Safety: Faster and more reliable 6G communication networks can revolutionise disaster response and public safety with real-time coordination and data sharing between emergency services that could significantly improve response times and effectiveness.

Economic Drivers:

• Innovation and Productivity: New jobs will be created with the implementation of 6G and stimulate economic growth across various commercial and social sectors. The increased network capacity will compel businesses to build innovative applications and services, leading to greater efficiency and productivity.
• Global Competition: Early adoption of 6G positions a nation at the forefront of technology and provides a competitive advantage in attracting business, encouraging innovation and promoting economic growth.

Environmental Considerations:

(From Efficiency to Sustainability: Exploring the Potential of 6G for a Greener Future - https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/15/23/16387)

• Energy Efficiency: To address the environmental impact of telecommunication infrastructure the development of 6G involves a focus on energy efficiency.

Target Audience: A Wide Spectrum of Radical Disruption

The benefits of 6G technology are not limited to the average mobile phone user:

• General Public: Communities will experience the advantages of faster internet speeds, improved network reliability and access to new applications and services in entertainment, education and communication.
• Specific Industry: Healthcare, manufacturing, transportation and entertainment sectors will be revolutionised. Imagine remote surgeries with real-time data transmission or autonomous vehicles seamlessly communicating with infrastructure for enhanced safety and efficiency.
• Emerging Industries: The advancements of 6G will foster the creation of entirely new industries and applications that are yet to be conceived.

6G technology is not merely an incremental advancement, an architectural disruption, but a critical step towards addressing the data demands of the future and enabling the next generation of groundbreaking applications.? Driven by a combination of societal, economic and environmental factors, 6G holds the potential to transform our world by fostering a more connected, equitable and innovative future.? 6G is a radical disruption.

What 6G Could Look Like - Interactive menus at restaurants, fully autonomous fleets of vehicles and warehouses, real time biometric technology, and incredible personalised augmented reality displays feel like extreme parts of a beautiful work of science fiction. But in just a decade or more, all of this could become science fact. 6G technology is in the earliest stages of development, and by 2030 we could all be living in a dramatically different world. Yes, 6G tech will be faster than 5G tech. But that speed means more than faster downloads. It unlocks a completely untapped world of possibilities previously only available to sci-fi superheroes. In today’s video we take a peek ahead at what 6G could look like and what it could mean for you.

‘6G vision for 2030’ / University of Oulu (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6ubRoZCeVw)

play the video → (https://youtu.be/uCXPDtu72rQ)

HOW Real-world Application?

• Demonstrating real-world application: Choose a relevant UNSDG as your focus area and select 2-3 case studies that illustrate how your chosen technology supports achieving the chosen UNSDG. Ensure the case studies represent diverse contexts e.g local NZ, global, indigenous or impact-focused applications.?
• Analysis: Use these examples to analyse the problems or needs mentioned earlier and to show the technology's practical application and implementation.?
• Refer UNSDGs?

how

←play the video (https://youtu.be/enGJyhu6Xr0)

UNSDG - Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable

Stocktaking | What it will take to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals? | United Nations / United Nations (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enGJyhu6Xr0)

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,?adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future. At its heart are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are an urgent call for action by all countries - developed and developing - in a global partnership. They recognise that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth – all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests.

6G Can Drive Progress Towards UN Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs)

Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development | United Nations https://sdgs.un.org/2030agenda)

The transformative potential of 6G is more than improved connectivity.? 6G is a powerful tool to address UNSDGs. 6G technology can support UNSDG #9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure. This goal emphasises building resilient infrastructure, fostering inclusive and sustainable industrialisation, and promoting innovation. United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (https://sdgs.un.org/goals)

Case Studies: Applications of 6G for Sustainable Development

1. Precision Agriculture in Rural New Zealand (UNSDG #9 Target #9.2):

• Problem: farms face challenges in monitoring stock and crop data and optimising resources. Traditional methods are labour intensive and approximate.
• Solution: 6G smart agriculture solutions can utilise a network of interconnected sensors to collect real-time data on soil moisture, nutrient levels, and crop health. This data can then be analysed using AI to provide farmers with insights for targeted irrigation, fertilisation, and pest control.
• Analysis: facilitating precision agriculture practices 6G enables increases agricultural productivity and efficiency; UNSDG #9 Target #9.2: "Promote inclusive and sustainable industrialisation and, by 2030, significantly raise industry’s share of employment and gross domestic product, in line with national circumstances, and double its share in least developed countries” (https://indicators.report/targets/2-4/ https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal9#targets_and_indicators)

2. Smart City Infrastructure in Developing Countries (UNSDG #9, Target 9.1):

• Problem: rapid urbanisation in developing countries presents challenges in managing infrastructure and resource allocation. Existing infrastructure systems lack real-time data and struggle to adapt to changing demands.
• Solution: 6G can be the backbone of a smart city network providing real-time monitoring of energy consumption, waste management and traffic flows. The data can be used to improve energy efficiency, reduce environmental impacts and optimise resource allocation.
• Analysis: the development of smart city infrastructure, 6G contributes to sustainable and resilient urban development; UNSDG target #9.1: "Develop quality, reliable, sustainable and resilient infrastructure, including regional and transborder infrastructure, to support economic development and human well-being, with a focus on affordable and equitable access for all” (https://indicators.report/targets/9-1/ https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal9#targets_and_indicators)

3. Indigenous Community Connectivity and Knowledge Sharing (UNSDG #9, Target 9.c):

• Problem: remote indigenous communities lack reliable internet connectivity inhibiting access to information, education and healthcare resources.
• Solution: 6G's broad and robust network coverage provides a solution for bridging the digital divide in remote areas facilitating the development of culturally appropriate educational resources and enabling real-time communication with healthcare and service providers.
• Analysis: by providing reliable internet access to indigenous communities 6G aligns with UNSDG target #9.c: "Significantly increase access to information and communications technology and strive to provide universal and affordable access to the Internet in least developed countries by 2020.” (Target 9.c: Access to ICT https://stats.unctad.org/Dgff2016/prosperity/goal9/target_9_c.html https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal9#targets_and_indicators)

These case studies demonstrate the potential of 6G technology to promote sustainable industrialisation, develop infrastructure and facilitate knowledge sharing. It is crucial to ensure equitable access to this technology to maximise its positive impact on achieving the UNSDGs.

https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal9#targets_and_indicators

IMPACT Opportunities and Challenges

• Impact Analysis: Analyse the potential impacts, e.g. societal, economic, or environmental, of the technology. Consider both positive and negative aspects. Highlight any ethical considerations.

MORE Further Exploration

• Expansion: Suggest additional resources for deeper understanding and further exploration e.g. videos, articles, websites, and influencers in the field. These could include or also be in addition to those used to research your Explainer)?

IMPACT

Impact: Opportunities and Challenges of 6G

The adoption of 6G technology presents a wide scope of opportunities and challenges that need careful consideration.

Positive Impacts:

• Socio-economic Empowerment: faster connectivity and broader network coverage can empower individuals and communities through improved access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. It can bridge the digital divide and foster innovation across various sectors.
• Environmental Sustainability: 6G developments focus on energy efficient infrastructure and network management support initiatives for smart city development and resource optimisation; and mitigating the environmental impact of the telecommunications industry.
• Improved Public Safety: reliable and low-latency 6G networks can revolutionise emergency response and disaster management by enabling real-time communication and data sharing between first responders.

Negative Impacts and Ethical Considerations:

• Privacy Concerns: ethical considerations regarding data collection, storage, and access must be addressed. The vast amount of data generated by interconnected devices necessitates robust data privacy frameworks to ensure user security and prevent misuse.
• Health Concerns: while research suggests minimal risk potential health effects of long term exposure to radio frequency waves associated with 6G need continued evaluation and monitoring.
• Enduring Digital Divide: unequal access to 6G technology could aggravate existing socio-economic disparities.? This highlights the need for inclusive infrastructure development policies. (6G to Take the Digital Divide by Storm: Key Technologies and Trends to Bridge the Gap - Future Internet?2022,?14(6), 189;?https://doi.org/10.3390/fi14060189)

MORE

Further Exploration:

To extend your understanding of 6G technology and its potential impact consider exploring these resources:

• Websites: The Next Web (https://thenextweb.com/), IMT-2020 (5G & 6G) What is 6G / Ericsson (https://www.ericsson.com/en/6g)
• Articles: "6G: The Next Generation of Wireless Connectivity" by Science Magazine (https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/01/230104231812.htm), “World’s first 6G research programme” - We Are 6G Flagship (https://www.6gflagship.com/), and a series of white papers from 6G Flagship ‘6G Visions on paper’ (https://www.6gflagship.com/white-papers/)

By critically and methodically evaluating 6G's potential benefits and drawbacks, we can ensure its development and implementation are responsible and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future.

Case Studies: Smarter Cars and Lighter Devices with 6G, CPS, and Edge Computing

The synergy of 6G, Cyber Physical Systems (CPS) and Edge Computing holds immense potential for making autonomous cars smarter and more efficient; and reducing the weight of mobile devices. Here are two case studies exploring these possibilities:

Case Study 1: Smarter Autonomous Cars with Distributed Intelligence

• Problem:? current autonomous vehicles rely on onboard computers with massive processing power for decision making and adding significant weight and cost to the vehicle.
• Solution:? by integrating 6G, CPS, and edge computing, autonomous cars can leverage distributed intelligence to reduce onboard processing requirements.
• CPS: an array of sensors (LiDAR, cameras, radar, BLE and UWB beacons) embedded in the car and in the environment (smart roads, traffic lights) collect real-time data.
• Edge Computing: Nearby edge servers analyse this data collaboratively, making real-time decisions about traffic flow, obstacle avoidance, and route optimisation.

Benefits:

• Lighter vehicles due to reduced reliance on bulky onboard computers
• Improved fuel efficiency and range
• Enhanced safety through collaborative decision making between vehicles and infrastructure
• Scalability for future advancements in autonomous driving technology

Real-World Example:? Imagine an autonomous car navigating a congested intersection. Traffic data from surrounding vehicles and smart traffic lights are analysed at the edge allowing the car to collaborate with other vehicles on the optimal route and speed ensuring a smooth and safe passage.

Case Study 2: Lighter Mobile Devices with Offloaded Processing

• Problem:? current mobile devices prioritise power and functionality, often resulting in bulky designs and limited battery life. Users desire slimmer and lighter devices for portability and convenience.
• Solution:? leveraging 6G's high bandwidth and low latency coupled with CPS and edge computing can significantly reduce processing power needed within mobile devices.
• CPS: Mobile devices can be transformed into data collection and user interface hubs relying on a network of interconnected sensors and actuators for complex processing tasks.
• Edge Computing: data collected by the device can be processed at nearby edge servers rather than on the device itself. This offloading of processing reduces the need for bulky and heavy processors and batteries in the mobile device.

Benefits:

• Lighter and thinner mobile devices with extended battery life
• Improved heat dissipation due to reduced internal processing
• Increased design flexibility for manufacturers

Real-World Examples:? Imagine a smartphone that acts as a hub for a network of wearable health monitors. Heart rate, blood pressure and activity data are collected by the wearables and processed at the edge server.? The smartphone then displays this information and interacts with the user.

Or look at a VR/AR headset… like the Apple Vision Pro and consider the weight of that headset for a user, neck strain & potential back pain.? With reduced computational requirements at the device the weight becomes nominal - no computing power means little requirement for a battery or processor, the two heaviest components of the headset.? 6G, CPS and Edge Computing will make augmented reality and immersive media ubiquitous.

*comment : on the 8th of March 2024 AcademyEX in the first week of the MTF Gen23 Dr Roy Davies demonstrated various VR & AR headsets; the excessive weight of a headset, particularly the Apple Vision Pro was raised as an issue.

6G, CPS and Edge Computing provide a collective solution to the concerns of weight of the headsets. With increased bandwidth, microsecond latency, computational demands at the edge and potentially power systems from the body for devices there is minimal weight in mobile or wearable devices in the 6G era.

These case studies illustrate how 6G, CPS, and edge computing can work together to revolutionise mobile devices and autonomous cars. By promoting lighter designs and enabling distributed intelligence, these technologies pave the way for a more user-friendly and efficient future.

references and sources

videos

*playlist EDT-1f (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLh3kc4GSLHGCIu6Of3PpDeIXzYol-v9B7)

’20 Emerging Technologies That Will Change The World’ / Future Business Tech (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SzMiJFOa6w8)

‘What is 6G?’ Unlisted / Nokia Bell Labs (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-tXZY7knPUo)

‘6G network as a sensor proof of concept’ / Nokia Bell Labs (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zmYafa8E8II)

‘How Internet of Things - IoT & Cyber Physical Systems Will Shape The 4th Industrial Revolution’ / Science Time (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1VhO4yGAjyo)

‘What is Edge Computing?’ / Accenture (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WMvb9LLXzUs)

‘6G vision for 2030’ / University of Oulu (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6ubRoZCeVw)

‘What 6G Could Look Like’ / Guide Nation (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uCXPDtu72rQ)

Stocktaking | What it will take to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals? | United Nations / United Nations (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enGJyhu6Xr0)

‘Making Sense of 6G security’ / Nokia Bell Labs (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HnTGcpspm0M&list=PLZ4JlAKnv384gnO_69G1EWqfODbsuXga-)

‘An introduction to autonomous vehicles’ / FIA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HgF7E5q9sU4)

‘The Future of Augmented Reality (2030)’ / Future Business Tech (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8V2nxeWHmI)

articles

6G – Connecting a cyber-physical world / Ericsson (https://www.ericsson.com/4927de/assets/local/reports-papers/white-papers/6g--connecting-a-cyber-physical-world.pdf)

Ericsson Mobility Report Q4 Update February 2020 (https://www.ericsson.com/assets/local/reports-papers/mobility-report/documents/2019/ericsson-mobility-report-q4-2019-update.pdf)

White Paper on 6G Drivers and the UN SDGs / 6G Flagship University of Oulu (https://www.6gflagship.com/white-paper-on-6g-drivers-and-the-un-sdgs/)

Matinmikko-Blue, M., Aalto, S., Asghar, M. I., Berndt, H., Chen, Y., Dixit, S., Jurva, R., Karppinen, P., Kekkonen, M., Kinnula, M., Kostakos, P., Lindberg, J., Mutafungwa, E., Ojutkangas, K., Rossi, E., Yrj?l?, S., & ??rni, A. (Eds.). (2020).?White Paper on 6G Drivers and the UN SDGs.?6G Research Visions, No. 2. University of Oulu.?https://urn.fi/urn:isbn:9789526226699

Latva-aho,?M. &?Lepp?nen, K.,?(Eds.).?(2019).?Key Drivers and Research Challenges for 6G Ubiquitous Wireless Intelligence.?6G Research Visions, No.?1. University of Oulu.?https://urn.fi/urn:isbn:9789526223544

Yrj?l?, S., Ahokangas, P., Matinmikko-Blue, M. (2024). Future Scenarios and Anticipated Impacts of 6G. In: Ahokangas, P., Aagaard, A. (eds) The Changing World of Mobile Communications. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-33191-6_3

From Efficiency to Sustainability: Exploring the Potential of 6G for a Greener Future - (https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/15/23/16387)

6G Visions on paper / 6G Flagship University of Oulu (https://www.6gflagship.com/white-papers/)

websites

What is 6G / Ericsson (https://www.ericsson.com/en/6g)

“6G explained” | Nokia) https://www.nokia.com/about-us/newsroom/articles/6g-explained/)

6G Flagship / University of Oulu (https://www.6gflagship.com/)

Hexa-X (https://hexa-x.eu/)

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (https://sdgs.un.org/goals) (https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal9#targets_and_indicators)

Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development | United Nations https://sdgs.un.org/2030agenda)

dropbox

image files & resources → https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/3g70sy4b2opwj3kdx4t7b/h?rlkey=7gqjh76559omyjkj3lxa4tuqf&dl=0

Assessment - Formative 1: Emerging Disruptive Technology (EDT) Explainer

Joff Rae 20.03.24