The Future of 6G: A Shift from Traditional Telecom Models to AI-Driven, Purpose-Built Open Networks

As we look ahead to the upcoming 6G era, it’s clear that the deployment models of future telecom networks may be vastly different from the heavy, capital-intensive strategies that have dominated 4G and 5G rollouts. Historically, Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Multi-Service Operators (MSOs) have made substantial investments in infrastructure—buying expensive spectrum licenses, building out the necessary network assets, and bearing the lion’s share of deployment costs. However, this traditional model has increasingly shown its limitations, especially as MNOs struggle to get a significant return on investment (ROI) from their 5G rollouts. The lack of compelling use cases and tangible benefits to consumers has hindered widespread adoption, and the resulting consumer reluctance to pay more for 5G services has left MNOs in a tough spot.

With 6G on the horizon, this model needs a major transformation. The future of telecom infrastructure will take a dramatically different path—one that leverages the immense potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and adopts a more flexible, purpose-built approach to network deployment.

The Current Model: Struggling with ROI

In the current model, MNOs and MSOs are the primary investors in network infrastructure. They acquire valuable spectrum licenses, deploy the necessary hardware, and build out extensive, often expensive, network architectures. However, the promised return on these investments has been slow to materialize. Despite 5G’s capabilities in theory, the real-world use cases—especially those that would convince consumers to pay more—are still in their infancy. In many regions, 5G adoption has not reached the levels anticipated, as users see little difference in their daily experiences between 4G and 5G speeds.

This lack of immediate application-driven demand has placed MNOs in a difficult position. They're heavily invested in infrastructure that has yet to generate the promised returns, and the financial burden of continued 5G rollout is weighing them down. To make matters worse, the pace of innovation in telecom has been so rapid that MNOs risk being stuck with a network model that is already starting to feel outdated before the full 5G vision is realized.

6G: The Need for a New Deployment Script

As we approach 6G, the current script of network deployment will need to be fundamentally rewritten. The traditional telecom model of one-size-fits-all, centrally-controlled infrastructure built by MNOs is no longer sustainable in the face of a rapidly evolving landscape. 6G needs to leverage the capabilities of AI and machine learning to automate, optimize, and customize networks for specific applications.

Rather than being the primary builders of infrastructure, MNOs can shift their role to becoming spectrum landlords. Their real, valuable asset is spectrum, not the costly physical infrastructure. Instead of bearing the full burden of network deployment and maintenance, MNOs could lease their spectrum to third parties—specialized infrastructure companies, service providers, or even specific businesses with unique needs. These companies could then build purpose-built networks tailored to specific applications.

A New Paradigm: AI-Powered, Purpose-Built Networks

Imagine a scenario where different industries and use cases deploy their own networks designed to meet their unique needs. Instead of a generic, one-size-fits-all network, the future could see a range of?custom networks?developed and deployed for distinct applications. Each network would be optimized for specific use cases and run on the spectrum leased from MNOs.

For instance, an augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) media company could deploy its own network designed to support high-bandwidth, low-latency applications required for immersive experiences. This company could lease spectrum from an MNO, deploy its own infrastructure using Open RAN hardware, and run its network optimized for AR/VR content delivery. Similarly, an Internet of Things (IoT) company could deploy a purpose-built network focused on low-power, high-density connections for smart devices, vehicles, or sensors.

These?purpose-built networks?would serve specific industries and could be?owned and operated?by companies with deep domain expertise rather than traditional MNOs. In this model, MNOs would act as?enablers,?leasing out the spectrum, providing access to the necessary infrastructure, and creating the regulatory framework for safe and efficient use.

The Role of Open RAN and AI in the Future of 6G

A key component of this new approach will be the deployment of Open RAN (Radio Access Networks) hardware, which allows for greater flexibility and interoperability. Open RAN’s modular nature would enable different entities to build and deploy their own networks more easily, without depending on the MNOs to roll these out for them. By enabling multiple players to bring their own innovations to the table, Open RAN would help foster a more dynamic and diverse telecom ecosystem.

Moreover, AI will be a cornerstone of 6G networks. From network optimization to resource allocation, AI can drive significant efficiencies. AI could also enable autonomous networks that adjust in real-time based on changing conditions, user demands, and environmental factors. AI-driven network management will allow these purpose-built networks to operate efficiently while minimizing human intervention.

Multiple Networks, New Business Models

The potential for multiple networks coexisting on the same spectrum—each purpose-built for different use cases—opens up a range of exciting possibilities. These networks would no longer be monolithic, owned and operated solely by MNOs. Instead, we could see a dynamic ecosystem of network providers, each serving distinct market segments and applications, and all leveraging the MNOs’ spectrum as the underlying foundation.

This approach could not only drive innovation but also create a more sustainable telecom ecosystem. By lowering the capital costs associated with network deployment and creating new revenue streams for MNOs through spectrum leasing, this model could help accelerate the rollout of next-generation networks while ensuring that resources are allocated where they are most needed.

Conclusion: The Future of Telecom Is Purpose-Built Open Network

The deployment models of 6G will likely be radically different from what we have seen in 4G and 5G. Instead of a single, massive network owned and operated by MNOs, we may see a landscape of multiple, purpose-built networks designed for specific use cases. These networks would be leased from MNOs, who would retain control of their valuable spectrum but shift away from being the primary builders and maintainers of infrastructure. By embracing AI, Open RAN, and a more flexible, use-case-driven deployment approach, we can unlock the full potential of 6G and enable a new era of connectivity that serves industries, businesses, and consumers in innovative ways.

Purpose-built Open network model will harness the power of AI. The flexibility will empower new players to create customized networks for their unique needs, driving faster innovation and providing more targeted, high-quality experiences. The future of telecom is not a one-size-fits-all network—it's a diverse ecosystem of interconnected, purpose-driven networks that can adapt to the ever-changing demands of the digital age.