Beyond 5G and 6G networks: joint communication and sensing

VTT is an innovation partner for developing cutting-edge, next-generation 5G and 6G communications. We do research and development for communication networks, and our strengths lie in understanding industry needs. We offer the latest wireless technology infrastructure for testing and research. We have experience in creating solutions for numerous domains, including:

• automated manufacturing
• health and wellbeing
• energy and transport
• public safety and critical infastructures
• smart cities
• defense and security.

These and many other industries stand to benefit from next-generation communications through enhanced reliability, performance and energy consumption. With 6G, we will also expect to see radically new applications developed using joint connectivity and sensing.

We have the ambition and the ability to develop solutions for even the most challenging environments. VTT has established a strategic partnership with European space organisation ESA with an aim to improve 5G communications networks utilising satellites. We are also working with European Defence Fund’s calls and collaborating with NATO.

We are collaborating with other world-leading organisations in developing 6G networks and the framework for next generation communications. Our expertise is used in the European flagship 6G project Hexa-X, for example. Finland has a leading role in the development of 6G networks with deep expertise in the field. 

Our research at VTT includes future network architecture for Beyond 5G, concept and technology development towards 6G systems, analytical and simulation-based network and protocol modelling, along with practical implementation of proof-of-concept and pre-commercial prototypes. Our expertise covers communication systems from radio technologies to core networks, Internet protocols, application and service protocols. 

We live in the era of sustainability. Beyond 5G and 6G networks support sustainability while being stable, scalable, efficient, reliable and agile.

The sensing can be used to optimise the network itself, for example, by discovering obstacles hindering communication and finding ways to go around them. Naturally, the role of AI will be important in optimising the 6G networks. 

Building on our rich expertise in connectivity, we help you to find valuable business potential from existing 5G networks and future 6G networks.

The exponential growth in the data carried over telecommunications networks and the number of network components pose challenges for network design and management. Network optimisation is one of our central themes, and we can help you leverage AI as a tool to optimise the network. We focus on intelligent network management solutions, measuring quality of service and utilising big data for network management. End to end optimisation of network resources, improving the quality of service for different vertical use cases and enabling secure and trusted communications are our main research and development targets.

At VTT, we can help you reap the benefits of 5G and 6G networks with:

• feasibility studies 
• research projects related to network optimisation, cyber security, air interface, front-end processing, transceiver components and more – also in the pre-commercial phase 
• proof of concepts, evaluations, prototypes and small-scale production 
• the validation of your products, services and applications in VTT’s 5G test network (in the future in our 6G network as well) 
• development of suitable materials and processes 
• technology transfers 
• IPR licensing.

Network infastructure has to be extremely secure, trusted and dependable to fulfil very tight reliability requirements. In the era of sustainability, Beyond 5G and 6G networks should also promote sustainability while being stable, scalable, efficient, reliable and agile. To support these goals, networks become more complex than existing ones. In the long run, networks and the applications they support should also be ready for the quantum era. To tackle this challenge, VTT develops measures to secure networks, e.g., post-quantum cryptography.

With the latest communication technology solutions, we can help you ensure the undisrupted operation of telecommunication networks and improve the reliability of your systems. This guarantees that the end-user experience is smooth and of high quality.