The aspiration for the next leap in mobile technologies is already a reality – simultaneously with the large-scale implementation and improvement of 5G networks, Europe and Bulgaria are actively preparing the platform for the introduction of 6G. Most forecasts and expert assessments put the end of this decade as the start for commercial implementation: the first large-scale tests of 6G are planned for 2028, and the deployment of 6G infrastructure is expected around 2030.
In Bulgaria, the leaders of the telecommunications sector are already participating in European consortiums and pilot programs such as 6G-VERSUS, which puts the country among the first countries with access to new technologies. "Our goal is to create an infrastructure that will be not only fast, but also sustainable, with the help of artificial intelligence and cloud solutions," said the executive director of one of the companies in Bulgaria.
In Europe, the Hexa-X and 6G-PATH projects form the basis for new standards and technology integration. The expected speed in 6th generation networks will reach over 95 Gbit/s, and areas with vulnerable connectivity will gain wide access to gigabit internet connection.
In the short term, the optimization and expansion of 5G coverage continues. Experts note that by the end of this decade, 5G coverage is predicted to be 85% globally.
The implementation of 6G will not be a "from scratch" revolution – according to 3GPP, the implementation will build on the already achieved results and technologies in 5G, and the transition will be gradual through hybrid standards (Release 20 and 21) and will integrate cloud and AI infrastructure, which will reduce costs and facilitate access for businesses and consumers.
An ocean of innovations is coming: holographic telephony, autonomous robotics, the integration of IoT devices and industrial internet will become standard, and low latency and huge capacity will transform the manufacturing, transport, healthcare and education sectors