Telstra announces it’s ready to plan for 6G with network partner Ericsson

As if 5G isn’t already enough right? Well, the next generation is starting to bubble away and as part of their long term planning for what’s next, Telstra has announced they’ve signed a letter of intent to collaborate with their network partner Ericsson on research and trials of 6G.

Yes, 6G.

As part of this plan Telstra and Ericsson teams will work together to test new concepts and technologies at Ericsson’s labs in Sweden, and also spent time at Telstra’s innovation centre on the Gold Coast.

Shailin Sehgal, Telstra Group Executive of Global Networks & Technology, says: “Our letter of intent with Ericsson demonstrates how we’re delivering on our Connected Future 30 strategy by continuing to build the technology momentum that will underpin 6G. 

“Mobile connectivity has been one of the most powerful economic engines of modern Australia. As the first G which is AI-native, 6G will be the most intelligent network yet – capable of advanced network connectivity, and new Network as a Product innovations such as the ability to sense the environment around the network. The latter opens the potential for new use cases for public safety, agriculture, weather detection and more. 

“Our focus is making sure Australia remains at the forefront of digital innovation, with connectivity that helps people, businesses and communities thrive.”

Erik Ekudden, Ericsson Chief Technology Officer, says: “We are on a clear and exciting trajectory – from 5G Standalone today, to AI-powered 5G and autonomous networks, towards AI-native 6G that is meeting the evolving and future business needs. 6G will redefine what a network fundamentally is – not just an AI-native technology platform, but a platform that senses, adapts and orchestrates resources to deliver outcomes for enterprises and society at scale; simply an intelligent fabric. 

“Realising that potential requires the kind of early, deliberate collaboration we are building together. Australia is a market at the forefront of network innovation where the combination of operator ambition, technical depth and innovation culture makes this genuinely meaningful. Our work with Telstra – spanning research, standards and real-world testing – paves the way for the next era of advanced connectivity.” 

Don’t stress, 6G isn’t coming soon folks, but, it is coming:)