Samsung joins global 6G-AI integration alliance

A total of 10 global tech companies including Samsung Electronics, Nvidia, Arm and Microsoft have formed an alliance to advance 6G technology at Mobile World Congress 2024 (MWC 2024), according to Samsung on Monday.

The global network, dubbed AI-RAN Alliance, aims to integrate AI with 6G technology. RAN stands for Radio Access Network.

This year’s MWC runs for four days starting Monday at the Fira de Barcelona Gran Via convention center in Spain.

AI-RAN Alliance will consist of three subgroups with different focuses on research and development (R&D): AI for RAN, AI and RAN and AI on RAN. AI for RAN focuses on maximizing the efficiency of wireless communication in frequency, cost and energy utilizing AI and machine learning; AI and RAN focuses on resource management and infrastructure in the integration of AI into wireless communication; AI on RAN focuses on developing new AI-powered apps and services for wireless technology.

The groups’ R&D is expected to largely contribute to the standardization and commercialization of 6G and new services, Samsung said.

“We anticipate the creation of new changes by focusing on AI and 6G networks, innovating the way people interact with technology, and generating new values,” said Charlie Zhang, head of Samsung Research’s advanced R&D team, in a statement.

Samsung Research oversees the development of next-generation telecommunications technology, AI robots and healthcare. The center formed a unit dedicated to 6G in 2019, holding its first 6G forum in 2022.

Dedication to 6G was Samsung Electronics Executive Chairman Lee Jae-yong’s first public comment this year as he emphasized an “unwavering” commitment to the telecommunications technology in a visit to the center last month.

BY LEE JAE-LIM [lee.jaelim@joongang.co.kr]