Decoding the Language of Next-Gen Wireless

The field of future wireless communications is rich with specialized terminology. This glossary provides definitions for some of the key concepts and acronyms you'll encounter as you explore the evolution beyond 5G towards 6G and other advanced wireless systems. For a broader overview of these topics, refer to our Home page.

6G (Sixth Generation)

The successor to 5G wireless technology, currently in the research and development phase. 6G aims to provide significantly higher data rates (Tbps), ultra-low latency (sub-millisecond), massive connectivity, and native AI integration, enabling a wide range of new applications. See more on our Vision of 6G page.

AI (Artificial Intelligence) / ML (Machine Learning)

In the context of wireless networks, AI/ML refers to the use of algorithms that enable systems to learn from data, identify patterns, and make decisions with minimal human intervention. This is crucial for network optimization, resource management, security, and enabling intelligent services. The basics of AI/ML are fundamental here.

Beamforming

A signal processing technique used in antenna arrays to direct radio signals towards a specific receiver, rather than spreading them omnidirectionally. This improves signal strength, reduces interference, and increases overall network efficiency.

Digital Twin

A virtual replica of a physical object, process, or system. Digital twins use real-world data to simulate the behavior of their physical counterparts, enabling analysis, prediction, and optimization. 6G will enhance the creation and real-time interaction with complex digital twins. Learn about their evolution on The Evolution of Digital Twins.

Edge Computing / Edge Intelligence

A distributed computing paradigm that brings computation and data storage closer to the sources of data – typically users and IoT devices. This reduces latency, saves bandwidth, and can enhance privacy. Edge intelligence refers to deploying AI/ML capabilities at the network edge. More details at Demystifying Edge Computing.

eMBB (Enhanced Mobile Broadband)

One of the three main use case categories for 5G (and evolving for 6G), focusing on providing significantly faster data speeds and greater capacity for applications like high-definition video streaming, VR/AR, and immersive gaming.

Holographic Communication

A futuristic form of communication that aims to transmit and display three-dimensional holographic representations of people and objects in real-time, creating highly immersive and interactive experiences. This is a key use case envisioned for 6G.

IMT-2020 / IMT-2030

Frameworks defined by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) for 5G (IMT-2020) and future 6G (IMT-2030) mobile communication systems. These frameworks outline the capabilities, requirements, and timelines for each generation.

IoT (Internet of Things)

The network of interconnected physical devices, vehicles, buildings, and other items embedded with sensors, software, and connectivity which enables these objects to collect and exchange data. The impact of current technologies is discussed in The Impact of 5G on IoT.

Latency

The delay between a user action and the resulting response from a network or system. Ultra-low latency is a critical requirement for applications like real-time gaming, autonomous driving, and remote surgery.

Massive MIMO (Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output)

An advanced antenna technology that uses a large number of antennas at the base station to serve multiple users simultaneously with improved spectral efficiency and link reliability.

mMTC (Massive Machine-Type Communication)

A 5G/6G use case focused on connecting a very large number of low-power, low-data-rate devices, such as sensors and actuators in IoT applications. This is vital for smart cities and industrial automation.

Network Slicing

A feature of 5G and future networks that allows multiple virtualized and independent logical networks to run on a common physical network infrastructure. Each slice can be tailored to meet specific requirements of different services or customers.

NTN (Non-Terrestrial Networks)

Communication networks that include components outside of Earth's surface, such as satellites (LEO, MEO, GEO), High-Altitude Platforms (HAPS), and drones. NTNs are crucial for achieving ubiquitous global coverage. This is one of the key technologies for the future.

RIS (Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces)

Programmable surfaces composed of many small, low-cost elements that can dynamically alter the way radio waves are reflected and scattered. RIS can improve coverage, signal strength, and energy efficiency by intelligently shaping the wireless propagation environment.

Spectrum

The range of electromagnetic radio frequencies used for wireless communication. Access to sufficient and appropriate spectrum is fundamental for any wireless technology.

Terahertz (THz) Communication

Wireless communication using frequencies in the Terahertz band (typically 0.1 THz to 10 THz). This spectrum offers enormous bandwidth potential for ultra-high data rates but also presents significant technical challenges in terms of propagation and device technology.

URLLC (Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communication)

A service category in 5G/6G designed for applications that require extremely high reliability and very low latency, such as industrial automation, remote surgery, and autonomous vehicles.

XR (Extended Reality)

An umbrella term encompassing Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) technologies. XR applications aim to create immersive and interactive digital experiences by blending the physical and virtual worlds. For more on AR/VR, see Exploring AR/VR Technologies.