Researchers predict 6G revolution in AI, VR, blockchain within decade following major chip development

A groundbreaking development in mobile communications technology may bring ultra-fast 6G networks to reality much sooner than expected.

An international team of researchers, led by Professor Withawat Withayachumnankul from the University of Adelaide, has successfully created and tested an innovative silicon chip that could lay the foundation for 6G connectivity. This advancement has the potential to revolutionize industries such as artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and blockchain.

The current 5G networks, introduced in 2019, have significantly improved mobile communication speeds and reduced latency.

However, the anticipated 6G technology promises to be a game-changer, offering speeds up to twice as fast as 5G and slashing latency by around 90%.

Initially, experts expected 6G to begin gaining commercial traction in the late 2030s. But with this new chip technology, researchers are now predicting the widespread adoption of 6G could occur within the next decade.

According to the University of Adelaide’s press release, Professor Withayachumnankul and his team believe their work will push the telecommunications industry forward faster than previously imagined.

“Within a decade, we foresee widespread adoption and integration of these terahertz technologies across various industries,” he stated, highlighting its potential impact on telecommunications, imaging, radar, and the Internet of Things (IoT).

The leap to 6G could dramatically change how we interact with technology. Beyond merely enhancing speed and reducing lag, the extended frequency range of 6G could unlock entirely new possibilities.

For instance, real-time, high-quality streaming in VR and spatial computing could become the norm, potentially enabling AI to create photorealistic metaverse environments and stream holographic images in real-time.

In addition, 6G could bring significant advancements in robotics by providing the bandwidth needed to control drone swarms or other robot formations across global networks. This capability could revolutionize fields like disaster response, agriculture, and even urban planning.

For the financial sector, the enhanced capabilities of 6G could transform blockchain technology, enabling instant transactions and real-time settlements.

The implications are vast, potentially reshaping everything from online banking to digital currencies and decentralized finance (DeFi) systems.