ITU adopts resolution to guide development of the 6G standard

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has adopted a resolution to guide the development of a 6G standard. The resolution is in the focus at the ongoing World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-23) in Dubai.
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The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has adopted ITU-R Resolution 65, which aims to guide the development of a 6G standard. This resolution enables studies on the compatibility of current regulations with potential 6th generation International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) radio interface technologies for the year 2030 and beyond. The adoption of this resolution is particularly significant during the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-23), taking place in Dubai, where discussions are being held on radio regulations and frequencies essential for advancements in smart cities, the digital economy, knowledge society, and space.

What is World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC)?

With 4,500 delegates from 193 countries and 900 international organizations and universities participating, the WRC-23 conference is a main platform for shaping the future of telecommunications. Topics being discussed include the integration of satellites into 5G and 6G standards, the review of satellite power limits, and the exploration of spectrum bands for phone-to-satellite communications. Terrestrial spectrum issues, including bands like 3GHz, 6GHz, and potentially 7-20GHz for 6G, are also on the agenda. However, discussions around spectrum allocation are expected to be complex, as disagreements between countries, particularly the US and China, could potentially lead to standards divergence in the 6G space.

Promoting gender equality is also a key focus at WRC-23. The ITU has adopted a resolution titled “Declaration on Promoting Gender Equality, Equity and Parity in the ITU Radiocommunication Sector,” emphasizing its commitment to diversity and gender inclusion in the sector.

Why does it matter?

The adoption of ITU-R Resolution 65 is a significant step towards the development of a 6G standard. The discussions at the WRC-23 conference are integral to determining radio regulations and frequencies for future technological advancements. The outcome of WRC-23 will have profound implications for the future of telecommunications, connectivity, and global communication networks.