In a landmark feat, Samsung has conducted a key 6G trial, achieving a peak download speed of 3 Gbps using X-MIMO technology. The test could set a major benchmark for the next-gen cellular technology, which is set to be commercialized around 2030.
Samsung ran the test at Samsung Electronics’ Seoul R&D Campus in collaboration with Keysight Technologies and KT Corporation (KT). There are a few things to keep in mind that can redefine 6G developments ahead. The test used X-MIMO (eXtreme multiple-input multiple-output) technology in the 7 GHz band. It also included the use of an ultra-high-density antenna that integrated more antenna elements despite keeping the physical size moderate.
For the test, Samsung used a 6G base station prototype with 256 digital ports and Keysight’s 6G terminal testbed.
JinGuk Jeong, Executive Vice President and Head of the Advanced Communications Research Center at Samsung Research, said, “Through our collaboration with KT and Keysight, we have demonstrated the potential for significant improvements in data rates for next-generation communications. We remain committed to pioneering future network technologies that will enable diverse services and enhanced user experiences in the 6G era.”
Also: 4G Vs. 5G: Everything You Need To Know
Samsung shows that 7 GHz could be the band for 6G
The hardware used here successfully demonstrated that the number of antennas could go three or four times higher compared to 5G networks. And the benefit is, it can demonstrably happen while keeping the physical size effectively low. At the same time, the 7 GHz band could become the norm for 6G network which can offer an ample balance between bandwidth capacity and coverage. So, it can be a strong candidate for the next-gen cellular technology. To compare, it can perform better with a faster data rate and wider coverage than what’s offered by 5G mmWave.
The researchers measured speeds while transmitting 8 data streams from the prototype 6G BTS to a single user device.
6G is the successor to 5G, and the development is still ongoing. South Korea seeks to launch 6G around 2028; however, there’s no fixed timeline for its rollout. But the way states and stakeholders are going, it could be sooner than later.