Samsung Electronics and KT Corporation have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on 6G research, focusing on improving signal quality and network efficiency. The partnership will develop advanced multi-antenna technologies to enhance coverage across high-frequency 6G bands. Additionally, the companies will explore artificial intelligence (AI) applications to strengthen network stability and performance.
As part of their research efforts, Samsung and KT are working on eXtreme multiple-input multiple-output (X-MIMO), a next-generation antenna technology designed to boost data transmission speeds and expand signal coverage. To address radio path loss in high-frequency environments, they also plan to develop beamforming techniques for precise signal direction and multi-space transmission technology to enable simultaneous data delivery to multiple users.
Samsung and KT are also focusing on the 7 GHz frequency band for 6G, which was recognized as a potential candidate by the 2023 World Radiocommunication Conference. This band offers advantages in terms of spectrum availability but presents challenges due to higher signal loss compared to the 3.5 GHz C-band used in 5G. Overcoming these limitations is crucial to ensuring reliable coverage for next-generation networks.
To address this, the companies are developing beamforming technology, which directs signals toward specific locations to improve transmission efficiency. They are also working on multi-space transmission, allowing multiple users to receive data simultaneously. These advancements aim to mitigate the increased signal loss at higher frequencies, ensuring that 6G networks can match or surpass 5G coverage.
The implementation of eXtreme multiple-input multiple-output (X-MIMO) technology is another key focus. Unlike 5G systems, which rely on fewer antennas, X-MIMO requires a significantly larger number of antennas to handle ultra-high-density data transmission. Samsung and KT are researching new system architectures capable of efficiently managing this complexity.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to play a crucial role in optimizing 6G performance. By integrating AI-driven solutions, the companies aim to predict and address network disruptions in real time, ensuring stable connections even in challenging environments. AI could help reroute data traffic when interruptions occur, improving user experience, particularly for applications like video streaming.
Highlighting the significance of this collaboration, Angelo Jeongho Park, Executive Vice President and Head of Samsung’s Advanced Communications Research Center, emphasized that the partnership with KT will lay a strong foundation for cost-effective and efficient advancements in next-generation communication technologies.
Jong-Sik Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of KT’s Future Network Laboratory, stated that the collaboration with Samsung will help secure advanced network technologies that enhance user experience.
Beyond antenna advancements, Samsung and KT are also exploring AI-driven solutions to improve connectivity, particularly in areas with weak signal coverage. This partnership follows KT’s previous collaboration with LG in developing wideband full-duplex equipment for potential 6G frequency bands, highlighting the company’s broader efforts to lead in next-generation wireless technology.
