Consensus and time are two of the biggest challenges for mobile network operators (MNOs) to prepare for 6G networks. That is what a new NGMN Alliance report indicates.
According to the document, MNOs are at different stages of their 4G and 5G evolution, with some using 5G non-standalone and others already transitioning to standalone. This makes it more complex to reach a position on what 6G networks should look like.
“This heterogeneity among the MNOs presents diverse perspectives on the most suitable 6G evolution path. Options under consideration include adopting a completely new 6G core, extending and enhancing the existing 5G core, or even integrating elements of the 4G EPC [Evolved Packet Core] into a hybrid core,” the report reads.
That is why the authors say now is the right moment to act. “To ensure the next generation of mobile networks unleashes its full potential, it is important that clear architectural design and implementation principles are set at an early stage,” said Arash Ashouriha, Chairman of the NGMN Alliance Board. “[This will] promote cooperation, minimise unnecessary complexity, and ensure alignment with long-term objectives.”
Time is another challenge the report explores. Ensuring “adequate time” is allocated for 6G architecture studies will be crucial to leverage insights and experience gained from 5G implementations, NGMN states.
TelcoForge asked the association to define “adequate time.” The association said that the studies should follow the timeline established by 3GPP. In this timeline, study items are conducted until June 2027, before the working items begin.
The Path to 6G
The report outlines several factors that NGMN believes will influence the architecture evolution towards 6G:
- Addressing 5G gaps and limitations: topics such as network complexity, energy efficiency, connectivity in remote areas, and global availability;
- Supporting new scenarios and requirements: the ITU-R framework for 6G (IMT-2030) includes use cases like AI and integrating sensing. MNOs also pointed out autonomous network management and AI-native design as the main new requirements triggering architecture change;
- Adapting to potential RAN changes, namely a new air interface and,
- Embracing new technology trends, like cloud-native, AI-native networks, digital twins, and others.
NGMN also established 13 principles for designing a 6G network architecture, including innovation, support for on-demand deployment of new features, and backward compatibility with existing core connectivity services.
Following the publication of this framework, NGMN will lead further initiatives and publish recommendations and requirements on key areas of network architecture evolution.
These include developing migration strategies, ensuring seamless coexistence with existing 5G networks, and exploring new capabilities that 6G must support.
“The future of mobile networks lies in their ability to evolve continuously, much like software, to meet the changing needs of users and industries. By focusing more on gradual improvements and leveraging the strengths of 5G and beyond, we can ensure a sustainable flow of innovative features, keeping our customers delighted,” concluded Laurent Leboucher, Member of the NGMN Alliance Board.
