Samsung Joins Global AI-RAN Alliance to Spearhead 6G Technology

Samsung Electronics, along with global tech giants including Nvidia, Arm, and Microsoft, has joined forces to advance 6G technology. The alliance, known as the AI-RAN Alliance, was unveiled at Mobile World Congress 2024 (MWC 2024) in Barcelona, Spain. The goal of the alliance is to integrate artificial intelligence with 6G technology, with RAN representing Radio Access Network.

This collaboration aims to develop and expand sixth-generation networks powered by AI. By leveraging the collective expertise of industry leaders, the alliance aims to surpass the capabilities of current 5G technology, promising enhanced capacity and reduced latency in wireless communication systems.The Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2024 commenced Monday at the Fira de Barcelona Gran Via convention center in Spain, running for four days. At the event, Samsung Electronics announced its participation as a founding member of the AI-RAN Alliance. 

This global consortium plans to advance 6G technology by merging artificial intelligence with wireless communication infrastructure, with a focus on the radio access network (RAN).

The AI-RAN Alliance is structured into three distinct subgroups, each dedicated to specific aspects of research and development (R&D). These subgroups include AI for RAN, AI and RAN, and AI on RAN. AI for RAN aims to optimize wireless communication efficiency, leveraging AI and machine learning to enhance frequency, cost, and energy utilization. 

Meanwhile, AI and RAN focuses on resource management and infrastructure integration, while AI on RAN concentrates on developing innovative AI-driven applications and services for wireless technology.

The R&D efforts of these groups are anticipated to play a role in shaping the standardization and commercialization of 6G technology, according to Samsung. Charlie Zhang, head of Samsung Research’s advanced R&D team, expressed optimism about the potential impact of focusing on AI and 6G networks, highlighting the prospect of revolutionizing human-technology interaction and generating novel values. 

Samsung Research, responsible for spearheading the development of next-generation telecommunications technology, AI robotics, and healthcare, established a dedicated 6G unit in 2019 and convened its inaugural 6G forum in 2022.

Samsung Electronics Executive Chairman Lee Jae-yong expressed his dedication to advancing 6G technology during a recent visit to the center, marking his first public statement on the matter this year. 

The AI on RAN working group is tasked with spearheading the development of innovative AI applications and services within wireless networks, aiming to drive technological advancements and foster research in this field. 

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