Both Companies Sign MOU for Joint 6G Technology Development
Ultra-Fast Communication Enabled by Rapid Data Processing
Strengthening Collaboration as Members of the AI-RAN Alliance
Samsung Electronics and SK Telecom have joined forces to apply artificial intelligence (AI) technology to communication infrastructure, aiming to enhance network performance and realize a hyper-connected 6G society.
SK Telecom and Samsung Electronics announced on the 26th that they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to lead 6G mobile communication technology and will begin joint research on AI-based Radio Access Networks (AI-RAN). The photo shows Ryu Takgi, Head of Network Technology at SK Telecom (fifth from the left), and Jung Jinkook, Head of the Next Generation Communication Research Center at Samsung Research (sixth from the left), along with other representatives from both companies, posing for a commemorative photo. Provided by SK Telecom
On November 26, Samsung Electronics and SK Telecom announced that they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly develop 6G technology, focusing on AI-based Radio Access Networks (AI-RAN). 6G, which is expected to open a new era in mobile communications, is known to offer data transmission speeds up to 50 times faster than 5G and to significantly expand the coverage area of communication signals. In particular, the deployment of fast and efficient communication infrastructure is essential to leverage cutting-edge technologies such as AI, autonomous vehicles, smart cities, and urban air mobility (UAM), all of which require processing vast amounts of data across large areas.
Through this collaboration, the two companies plan to jointly develop and test key technologies for the 6G era, including ▲AI-based channel estimation ▲distributed multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) transmission ▲AI-RAN-based schedulers ▲core network architecture. The partnership is being led by Samsung Research, a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics, and the Network Technology division at SK Telecom. Samsung Research will be responsible for developing AI-RAN technologies such as AI-based channel estimation models, schedulers, and distributed MIMO, while SK Telecom will provide data and establish test infrastructure based on its experience operating a nationwide network.
AI-based channel estimation technology enables real-time prediction and correction of signal changes, even in environments where radio waves are distorted by obstacles such as buildings or walls, thereby enabling fast and accurate data transmission. This technology can enhance the overall performance of the network.
Unlike conventional methods where a single base station processes data, distributed MIMO technology allows multiple base stations or antennas to cooperate in transmitting and receiving data. This structure supports more stable and ultra-high-speed communication services across all areas, including both urban and rural regions.
AI-RAN schedulers and AI-based core networks optimize the timing, location, and method of data transmission to efficiently allocate network resources, even when numerous user devices are connected simultaneously. These technologies not only improve overall communication quality but are also considered foundational for enabling automation in the future hyper-connected society.
Samsung Electronics and SK Telecom announced on the 26th that they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to lead 6G mobile communication technology and will officially start joint research on artificial intelligence-based radio access networks (AI-RAN). Ryu Takgi, Head of Network Technology at SK Telecom (left), and Jung Jinkook, Head of the Next Generation Communication Research Center at Samsung Research, are posing for a commemorative photo after signing the agreement. Photo by SK Telecom
As members of the AI-RAN Alliance, both companies have entered the race early to secure leadership in 6G mobile communication technology. In 2023, SK Telecom became the first telecom operator in Korea to publish a 6G white paper, outlining the future direction of networks utilizing AI for cloud, sensors, and robotics. This year, at the world's largest mobile exhibition, MWC in Barcelona, Samsung Electronics showcased a variety of demos based on collaboration within the AI-RAN Alliance.
Continuing from last year, Samsung also held the "Silicon Valley Future Communication Summit" in November this year to strengthen AI-RAN research and industry collaboration. AI-based channel estimation technology has been approved as an official work item, and at this month's general meeting, the companies presented joint research achievements, furthering their collaborative efforts.
Jung Jinkook, Head of the Next Generation Communication Research Center (ACRC) at Samsung Research, said, "Through our field-oriented collaboration with SK Telecom, we will verify the effectiveness of AI-based wireless technologies in real-world environments and secure core AI-RAN technologies at an early stage. We look forward to jointly paving the way for 6G commercialization through our continued partnership."
Ryoo Takgi, Head of Network Technology at SK Telecom, also stated, "The convergence of AI and wireless communications is a key factor that will determine competitiveness in 6G. Through our collaboration with Samsung Electronics, we will secure world-class AI-RAN-based 6G technology and take the lead in the global 6G ecosystem."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
