Europe Embarks on Revolutionary 6G Path with Regulatory Changes
Brussels, Saturday, 18 January 2025.
In 2025, Europe implements pivotal regulatory reforms to advance 6G technology, aiming to lead in global wireless communication and foster significant economic growth.
Substantial Investment and Strategic Vision
The European Union has demonstrated its commitment to 6G leadership with the Smart Networks and Services Joint Undertaking (SNS JU) allocating €128 million in funding for 2025 [2]. This strategic investment comes at a crucial time, as the mobile industry contributed €1.1 trillion to Europe’s economy in 2023, representing 5% of GDP and supporting over 3 million jobs [1]. The initiative aims to bridge current technological gaps, especially considering that 5G adoption in Europe reached only 30% of mobile connections by the end of 2024 [1], lagging behind North America, East Asia, and Gulf Cooperation Council states.
Research Focus and Technical Development
The SNS JU’s 2025 work programme encompasses three critical streams: advanced 6G technology research, development of 6G Telco Cloud infrastructure, and large-scale industry trials [2]. This comprehensive approach integrates cutting-edge elements such as the unification of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, and the incorporation of photonics systems [2]. The programme builds upon a foundation of over €500 million already committed to beyond-5G and 6G research in Europe [2], demonstrating the region’s sustained commitment to technological advancement.
Industry Collaboration and Economic Implications
Industry leaders are actively participating in this transformation, with companies like Ericsson investing heavily in European R&D [1]. Ericsson’s head of 6G portfolio strategy, Marie Hogan, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a ‘global and flexible supply chain’ for future 6G landscapes [1]. The economic impact is expected to be substantial, with 5G technology alone projected to add €164 billion to the European economy by 2030 [1], setting a strong foundation for 6G implementation.
Future Outlook and Standardization
As Europe positions itself for 6G leadership, key developments are expected in 2025, including the initiation of 6G standardization studies by 3GPP [2]. The SNS JU is actively aligning its efforts with sustainable development goals, focusing on climate-neutral network infrastructures [2]. This comprehensive approach to 6G development, combining regulatory reforms with substantial investment and industry collaboration, positions Europe to potentially lead the next generation of wireless communication technology, anticipated to arrive around 2030 [1].