Jason Oxman President and Chief Executive Officer at Information Technology Industry Council | Official website
Global tech trade association ITI has issued recommendations for the U.S. government as preparations begin for the next generation of mobile communications. Responding to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) request for comments on the advancement of Sixth Generation (6G) telecommunications technology, ITI emphasized what is needed for U.S. industry to advance 6G deployment and utilize innovations in AI, sustainable networks, and cybersecurity, with 6G anticipated to be released in 2030.
“The clock is ticking on commercial 6G deployment, and a smooth transition to this next-generation technology requires a comprehensive approach,” said ITI’s Senior Director of Telecommunications Policy Katie McAuliffe. “By relying on industry expertise, the U.S. can proactively address evolving challenges while maximizing 6G’s transformative potential in areas like sustainability and AI for network performance. ITI and our members look forward to continuing to work with policymakers to advance 6G in the United States and globally.”
ITI's response to NTIA's exploratory questions highlights several key areas of guidance:
Industry Engagement: Industry will lead the transition to 6G as it did with previous mobile generations. However, an enabling regulatory environment remains crucial. Partnering and engaging with industry should be central to all government-related 6G regulatory initiatives.
Cybersecurity: The development of 6G will require industry approaches that manage a full range of security risks to mobile network infrastructure, applications, services, devices, and data. This includes supporting a zero-trust approach with an emphasis on secure-by-design principles.
Standards: The U.S. government should support U.S. industry participation in standards bodies working on 5G and 6G specifications by backing open, inclusive, industry-led standardization bodies with transparent processes and policies.
Innovation: Technological innovations will play foundational roles in 6G development. Key areas for research include Multi-Access Edge Computing (MEC), which allows data analysis at the network edge rather than sending it all to the cloud, as well as AI and machine learning for intelligent network management that enhances predictive maintenance and optimizes operations by predicting traffic patterns and managing resources efficiently.
Sustainability: The architecture of 6G networks will prioritize energy efficiency as a core principle. Consequently, 6G could significantly contribute to achieving U.S. and global decarbonization targets through increased collaboration between tech companies and various industry sectors.
