Editorial

Dear readers,

As we lay the groundwork for 6G, the balance between progress and preservation is critical. While the next generation of wireless technology, promises phygital ie seamlessly integrate both the physical and digital worlds. This is quite exciting, but it must not come at the expense of our planet. Through collaboration, innovation, and commitment to sustainability, we can ensure that 6G becomes a beacon of responsible technological advancement.

With this vision, efforts are directed to create a unified 6G, driven by key stakeholders worldwide, evolving to global consensus. The European perspective, represented by the 6G Smart Networks and Services Industry Association (6G-IA), underlines Europe´s proactive role in 6G Research and Development (R&D) and standardisation, addressing societal, environmental, economic and market challenges.

To understand the implications of sustainability in 6G, we reached out to leading expert from Nokia, for an exclusive interview for the Eurescom message and gathered insights on the core value of sustainability for ICT industry.

This issue of Eurescom message magazine features a diverse range of articles on various ICT-related activities including learnings derived from the Sustainability Task force of the Smart Network and Services initiative,Technology board. The TB of the SNS JU oversees and supports the technical work of SNS Projects and the implementation of the SNS-Initiative. One of the most important task forces is the Sustainability Task Force, created in 2023 which monitors the project activities and advocate the need for a globally accepted framework that must have specific and measurable indicators to evaluate the success in meeting sustainability goals.

When sustainability becomes a key aspect of innovation, the results are not only impactful but also enduring. This is the aim of projects led by Eurescom, the EU funded Project PAROMA-MED aims to develop novel technologies, tools, services and architectures for patients, health professionals, data scientists and health domain businesses and share their Sustainable practices that enable Privacy Awareness and Privacy Preserving Distributed services and applications in medical sector.

In the article “How can 6G-SANDBOX as an experimental platform contribute to assess sustainability?” you get the glimpse of 6G-SANDBOX experimental facility and how it is being developed to validate concepts and ideas around sustainability.

In this edition, the KENNEDY Perspective on “Sustainable sustainability” reflects on the evolution of telecommunications networks and how techno-economic balancing act between the costs of providing the connectivity versus the costs of the materials and equipment is critical! And the final search to the answer: how to deliver services at a reasonable affordable price to the consumers?

With Eurescom’s active engagement, we showcased our participation at the EuCNC & 6G Summit 2024, and made a significant impact at the Summit with representation of SNS OPS & SNS ICE projects via the SNS JU booth, organization of workshop titled “Non-Terrestrial Networks and Terrestrial Networks Unification – from Vision to Reality”, presentation and demonstration from projects CENTRIC and CHARITY, Moderating the SNS JU Workshop, promoting the need for inclusion and diversity and presenting at the WiTaR Working Group Session etc.

Continuing the trend, the FUSECO Forum was another Strategic telecommunications industry event where we presented, on the sustainability needs, challenges faced by 6G and Verticals, and the actions required to address these challenges. As a part of the INPACE Support Action the workshop on the Digital Partnerships between the EU and the Republic of Korea, Japan, and Singapore, was organized. At the exhibition space, project 6G-SANDBOX presented and demonstrated the latest project results. The vision for integrating Terrestrial Network(TN) and Non Terrestrial Network(NTN) for 5G-Advanced, focusing on network disaggregation, multi-connectivity, and space edge computing, was also presented.

Additionally, Eurescomians participated in several other high-profile events like Berlin 6G Conference, Digital-Gipfel, NEM Summit 2024, 5G Techritory etc. reaffirming our dedication to driving advancements in next-generation communication technologies, with a focus on 6G by engaging in collaborative workshops, panel discussions, and strategic initiatives.

We continue to shape the future of telecom, tackling key industry and leading role in 6G innovation with the launch of the new Horizon Europe SUSTAIN-6G and SNS CO-OP projects starting in January 2025.

As the digital transformation of global economies accelerates, fostering international cooperation in digital technology has become essential. To support this vision, the EU-funded INPACE project was launched in January 2024 plays an important role in supporting the implementation and advancement of the Digital Partnerships established between the European Union and key Indo-Pacific countries, including Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Singapore, and through the Trade and Technology Council with India.

My editorial colleagues and I are confident that you will find valuable insights in this edition of Eurescom’s Message. We warmly welcome your feedback on the current issue and invite your suggestions for topics to explore in future editions. Let us know if you are interested to join forces with us!

Happy reading!

Pooja Mohnani
Editor-in-chief

12th FUSECO Forum 2024

Anastasius Gavras
Eurescom GmbH

The FUSECO Forum is a highlight industry event around telecommunications and its applications, taking place every November in Berlin. This year the event took place for the 12th time and was under the overarching theme of “Forward to 6G”, despite the fact that the industry is still in the process of deploying 5G capabilities beyond plain enhanced mobile broadband service. Activities, in which Eurescom GmbH is actively involved and partly leading have supported the event.

Introduction

As we delve into the evolution of 5G, driven by advancements in Open Campus Networks, 6G RAN, Core Network Evolution, Non-terrestrial Networks, and Data-/AI-based Networking, the FUSECO Forum provided an excellent opportunity for listening to expert opinions and network with interested parties from the industry. The event reflected the lessons learned from global 5G network deployments and research. It also highlighted the growing interest in private industrial campus networks as industries gear up for the 6G era as well as the very fast emerging role of Non-Terrestrial Networks.


Anastasius Gavras, Eurescom GmbH, presenting INPACE project sustainability goals

Sustainability

In his presentation, Anastasius Gavras from Eurescom GmbH discussed directions towards developing a sustainability framework for 6G technology, addressing environmental, societal, and economic aspects, including its applicability to key vertical sectors. The intersections between sustainability needs, challenges faced by 6G and verticals, as well as the actions required to address these challenges were discussed. Since the relevant sustainability aspects (environmental, societal, economic) cannot be fully addressed in isolation, innovative concepts and solutions are required, which consolidate a holistic view on gaps and trade-offs in technology, processes, and methodologies. Ultimately the industry needs guidelines, best practices, and roadmaps, which are validated through prototypes and proof-of-concepts. In this context.

INPACE workshop

Adam Kapovits from Eurescom GmbH, organised and chaired the workshop on the Digital Partnerships between the EU and the Republic of Korea, Japan, and Singapore, which was part of the INPACE Support Action[i] activities. Mr. Kapovits gave an overview of the INPACE activities in this context, which were followed by examples of collaboration between stakeholders from the aforementioned regions. Among others the collaboration between EU and Japan actors in the context of the SATis5 project funded by the European Space Agency was discussed. Dr. Kentaro Ishizu from NICT, Japan gave an overview of ­Beyond 5G/6G R&D activities at NICT especially focusing on a vision of Society 5.0 and cyber physical system (CPS). Prof. François Baccelli from INRIA Télécom / ENS (Département d’Informatique), Paris, presented the joint work with South Korean colleagues on Stochastic Geometry as a means to master complexity that results from the high number of new radio access technologies and used frequencies.


Adam Kapovits, Eurescom GmbH, at the INPACE workshop

3rd Euro NTN Workshop

The workshop was co-organised by Adam Kapovits, together with Markus Breitbach from DT and Marius Corici from Fraunhofer FOKUS, and chaired by Adam Kapovits and Anastasius Gavras, and covered a wide variety of topics related to the integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks (TN and NTN).

The unified 3D mobile network architecture aims to seamlessly integrate terrestrial, aerial, and satellite layers, focusing on IoT, handheld access, and safety-critical operations. Emphasizing the need for native NTN support in 6G, the talks reviewed 3GPP standardization efforts to eliminate mobile network coverage gaps. Ongoing and shortly upcoming experiments with 5G NTN gNodeB in space were presented and discussed, highlighting the seamless integration of terrestrial and space networks. The evolution of NTN within 5G and the need for a jointly optimized infrastructure in 6G for continuous connectivity were also highlighted.

Additionally, the challenges and optimization methods for TN-NTN spectrum sharing to avoid interference and maintain coverage were discussed. The presentation of a 6G satellite lab for real-time testing of technical challenges and new features, including satellite base stations and advanced 6G waveforms, showcased the innovative strides being made. The vision for integrating TN and NTN for 5G-Advanced, focusing on network disaggregation, multi-connectivity, and space edge computing, was also presented. Resource management challenges in integrated 5G/6G networks to maximize capacity and meet user needs, creating a dynamic 3D access network, were discussed. Lastly, approaches to modelling NTN using stochastic geometry, focusing on Low Earth Orbit satellite constellations and spectral efficiency, were presented.

6G-SANDBOX

At the exhibition space, project 6G-SANDBOX presented and demonstrated the latest project results. Michael Dieudonne, R&D manager at Keysight Technologies Belgium and the project manager of 6G-SANDBOX staffed the booth and gave valuable insights to the visitors.

The project supports technology and research validation processes essential for the development of 6G. It introduces the concept of Trial Networks, which are fully configurable, manageable, and controlled end-to-end networks composed of both digital and physical nodes. The project focuses on defining and releasing its architecture and processes for an experimentation facility, integrating 6G technologies into a physical connectivity infrastructure, and developing a resource management framework to efficiently deploy trial networks. The goal is to create a platform for 6G technology validation and KPI measurements. Eurescom GmbH is a partner in the 6G SANDBOX project.


Michael Dieudonne, Keysight Technologies, presenting 6G-SANDBOX latest project results

Conclusion

The FUSECO Forum event held in Berlin on November 7-8, 2024, was a comprehensive and forward-looking gathering that delved into the evolution of 5G and the future of 6G. This event brought together experts from around the world to discuss the latest innovations and lessons learned from global public and private 5G network deployments, as well as 5G evolution research and standardization. Overall, the FUSECO Forum provided valuable insights into the future of telecommunications, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, innovation, and sustainability in shaping the next generation of connectivity.

Further information

Eurescom’s Presence at the EuCNC & 6G Summit 2024


Audrey Bienvenu
Eurescom GmbH

Showcasing Innovation through Collaboration in Telecommunications

From 3rd -6th June 2024, the 33rd edition of EuCNC & 6G Summit took place in Antwerp, Belgium. The conference addressed various aspects of Beyond 5G/6G communications systems and networks. Bringing together the State-of-the art research and global industries and businesses, attracting more than 1000 delegates from 40 countries, an exhibition with more than 50 exhibitors, were selected Eurescom projects for demonstrating the technology developed in EU R&I programmes.

SNS JU Stand via SNS OPS Project

Eurescom co-hosted the Smart Network and Services Joint Undertaking (SNS JU) stand at EuCNC 2024, through the SNS OPS project. This project serves as a collaborative platform for European and global stakeholders involved in preparing 6G smart networks and services.

At the booth, SNS OPS was joined by its sister project SNS ICE and presented SNS JU’s recent achievements and promoted its strategic objectives in 6G development.

By fostering connections with international regions and standardization bodies, SNS ICE aims to ensure Europe’s active participation in global 6G standardization and trend-setting. As part of the project’s outreach, dedicated workshops and presentations at major events like EuCNC and Techritory will continue to shape the international discourse on 6G and inform SNS JU’s community on global developments, keeping Europe’s R&I at the forefront of innovation.


Eurescom GmbH Director David Kennedy (right)
presenting SNS JU at the SNS OPS stand


SNS JU booth at EuCNC 2024


Team SNS ICE at EuCNC 2024

Non-Terrestrial Networks and Terrestrial Networks unification – from Vision to reality Workshop

The workshop “Non-Terrestrial Networks and Terrestrial Networks Unification – from Vision to Reality” held on June 3, 2024, aimed to advance integration between space-based and terrestrial communication networks, focusing on 5G and 6G technologies. Organized by Adam Kapovits (Eurescom) and Maria Guta (ESA) as part of the EuCNC & 6G Summit, the event explored the potential of recently available space assets for in-orbit experimentation, enabling Proof of Concept (PoC) validations, demonstrations, and standardization efforts.

Key sessions included insights into European research projects and initiatives, such as ESA’s 6G precursor mission and Germany’s SERANIS mission. Presenters discussed technical architectures, use cases, and enabling technologies for NTN-6G, with contributions from leading SNS JU projects like 5G-STARDUST and 6G-SANDBOX. Additionally, industry leaders and researchers highlighted projects on 3D networks, optical space backbone networks (HydRON), and combined airspace networks, underlining Europe’s strong engagement in the NTN/6G domain.


Maria Guta, ESA Senior 5G/6G Satcom Solutions
Architect in NTN, presenting the ESA 6G precursor mission


NTN Workshop attendees

Innovative demo for the CENTRIC Project Stand

Eurescom’s CENTRIC project, led by project manager Halid Hrasnica, and demonstration set by NVIDIA and Keysight partners stood out as a prime example of innovation in receiver technology. At the CENTRIC demo, the project demonstrated NVIDIA and and Keysight’s advanced Neural Receiver concept, designed to optimize receiver structures for specific deployment sites. This technology represents a step forward for multi-user MIMO receivers by utilizing neural networks that can be fine-tuned on-site for enhanced performance.

The CENTRIC demo illustrated how the neural receiver, initially trained on standard stochastic channel models, offers significant improvements over traditional MIMO receivers. When fine-tuned with data from the base station’s specific deployment site, its performance outpaces that of a generically trained receiver. The hardware-based validation setup provided attendees with a tangible glimpse into the potential of neural network-based receivers within a real 5G ORAN network.


CENTRIC team at their booth


CENTRIC team with their demonstration

SNS ICE Support to the SNS JU Introduction Workshop

SNS ICE was pleased to back the Smart Networks and Services Joint Undertaking (SNS JU) Steering Board (SB), Technology Board (TB), and Working Groups (WGs) Workshop held during the first day of the EuCNC & 6G Summit 2024. This event spotlighted the collaborative efforts shaping the future of smart networks and services.

Pavlos Fournogerakis, SNS-JU’s deputy head of Programme, emphasized the vital role of project collaborative bodies in advancing SNS JU’s vision. SB Chairman Mikael Fallgren (Ericsson) and TB Chairman Konstantinos Trichias (6G Smart Networks and Services Industry Association) gave an update on active SNS JU projects, current technologies, and upcoming objectives for the SB and TB.

The Working Group chairs—Ömer Bulakci (Architecture WG), Michael Dieudonne (TMV WG), David Artuñedo (Software WG), and Ioannis Tomkos (Hardware WG)—shared insights into their focus areas and anticipated outcomes for the coming period, contributing to Europe’s leadership in 6G innovation. The session was moderated by Eurescom Programme manager Uwe Herzog from the SNS OPS CSA project, fostering in-depth discussions on progress and goals.


Uwe Herzog, SNS OPS CSA project manager, opening the SNS JU workshop


Panel discussion on the Impact of 6G Technology

Participation in the WiTaR Working Group Session

Eurescom project manager Pooja Mohnani took part in the “Women in Telecommunications and Research” (WiTaR) convened session on June 4, 2024. Representing both Eurescom and the SNS ICE project, she engaged with other leaders in a session dedicated to promoting gender equality, inclusion, and empowerment within the 6G Research & Innovation community. WiTaR, an EU-level initiative, is committed to closing gender gaps and empowering more women in R&I fields, reflecting Eurescom’s own values of inclusivity and equity in tech.


Pooja Mohnani presenting: WiTaR collaboration opportunities with SNS JU projects and working groups


WiTaR workshop attendees

CHARITY Project Stand

The CHARITY project, a Horizon 2020 project initiative lead by Eurescom and now successfully finished, showcased last advancements in immersive communication through intelligent use of network resources. Running since January 2021 and concluded in June 2024, CHARITY focused on orchestrating cloud, edge, and network resources to support emerging applications requiring both low and high latency environments. The project’s open-source framework for intelligent resource orchestration captured significant interest, with visitors recognizing the project’s potential to transform network resource management for immersive and interactive communication.


CHARITY team at EuCNC 2024

Joint forces at the CELTIC-NEXT & Xecs booth

The goal of the joint booth was to promote the cooperation between the CELTIC’s ICT community and the Xecs’ microelectronics and systems community. At the booth the EUREKA Clusters CELTIC-NEXT and Xecs presented alternative R&D&I funding schemes to the ICT community focused on 6G technology design and development. The Eureka cluster advocates Xavier Priem, CELTIC-NEXT’s Director, and, Patrice Cogez, Xecs’ Technical Director, provided insights on the EUREKA Clusters and information about the upcoming calls for proposals of the two clusters and the processes involved.


Xavier Priem, CELTIC-NEXT’s Director, and, Patrice Cogez, Xecs’ Technical Director

Conclusion

Eurescom’s presence at EuCNC & 6G Summit 2024 underscored its commitment to driving technological innovation, inclusivity, and global collaboration in telecommunications. By showcasing projects like CENTRIC and CHARITY, supporting gender diversity initiatives through WiTaR, and contributing to the strategic efforts of the SNS JU through SNS OPS, Eurescom remains a key player in advancing Europe’s leadership in the next generation of network technology.

EuCNC & 6G Summit 2024 offered a vibrant stage for Eurescom to demonstrate its contributions to the evolution of telecommunications and to strengthen connections within the global R&I community, and will continue by taking leading roles in beginning 2025 in two new 6G innovative SNS JU Horizon Europe SUSTAIN-6G and SNS CO-OP (see next article).

Further information

MWC Barcelona 2024

Several Eurescom projects participated in the world’s most influential connectivity event

From the 27th of February to the 2nd of March 2024, the global mobile ecosystem organisation GSMA hosted the 14th edition of the Mobile World Congress. This year, the event witnessed a total of 101,000 unique in-person attendees from 205 countries. Among them, 59% were professionals from the sector of core mobile ecosystem. Amidst, of the 2,700 exhibitors, sponsors and partners in the conference programme, were selected Eurescom projects.

Joint demonstration booth of the SNS JU projects, 6G-SANDBOX and CENTRIC

Keysight Technologies in collaboration with the partners NVIDIA and InterDigital participated to promote two demonstrations from the SNS JU project 6G-SANDBOX and CENTRIC from 27th to 29th Feb 2024.

Both projects are running under the Smart Networks and Services Industry Association (SNS JU). They showcased their latest wireless innovations, including Nemo Wireless Network Solutions, such as 6G using AI Neural Receiver Design and AI/ML and sensing in 6G solutions.


Michael Dieudonne, project coordinator of 6G-SANDBOX Project (Keysight Technologies), Sebastian Cammerer (NVIDIA), Alejandro Villena Rodríguez (Keysight Technologies) and Germán Corrales Madueño (Keysight Technologies).

OPTI-6G at the MWC 2024

One of Eurescom’s newly started project, OPTI-6G, participated at the MWC 2024 through one of its consortium partners, RunEL, between the 27th and 29th of February 2024. Amid, among the other innovative start-ups, RunEL presented its technology and experience, and the OPTI-6G project challenge to design low cost, light weight, low electronic footprint Optical Wireless Communications Remote Units (O-RUs) that can be elegantly integrated into near IR access points.

6G-SANDBOX presentation at the Spanish Pavilion

On the 27th of February, Alfonso Carrillo Aspiazu, Senior Architect in Edge and Telco Solutions at OpenNebula Systems, presented at the Spanish Pavilion on “Accelerating 5G deployment on the Telco Edge with Open Nebula”. He presentation included innovations from 6G-SANDBOX project and the announcement of their Second Open Call.

During the full day, he and his colleague, Bruno Rodriguez, also hosted a booth to present the company and the latest results of 6G-SANDBOX project.


Alfonso Carrillo Aspiazu presenting at the Spanish Pavilion.


MCW Barcelona 2024 in numbers, event report image.

Conclusion

Mobile World Congress 2024 provided a platform where technology, community and commerce converge and hence an opportunity for Eurescom projects to disseminate their results in person and to expand their network and representation in the technical world.

Further information