Quote: Standards as Geopolitical Proxies

- The European Union is advancing its concept of "digital sovereignty" to gain more autonomy in the digital realm and fortify its economic security amidst growing geopolitical tensions and technological shifts. This involves creating frameworks for data governance, promoting trustworthy AI, and adapting competition rules to reduce reliance on non-EU technology companies. - In a move with geopolitical implications, the United States and allied governments released a joint statement endorsing shared principles for the research and development of 6G networks. This initiative is seen as an effort to counter China's increasing influence in advanced communication technologies. - China's "National Standardization Development Outline" explicitly states the goal of leading international standardization in critical and emerging technologies such as AI, 5G, and quantum information. This strategy aims to bolster domestic industry and increase China's influence in global rule-making. - The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) has initiated technical studies for 6G, with a normative phase for developing technical specifications expected to begin in 2027. Collaboration with organizations like the O-RAN Alliance is considered crucial for developing open interfaces in the 6G Radio Access Network (RAN). - In the realm of AI, international standards bodies like ISO, IEC, and ITU are collaborating to create frameworks for transparency, accountability, and risk mitigation. These standards are seen as essential for building trust and ensuring the safe and ethical deployment of AI technologies. - The development of quantum computing standards is underway to ensure interoperability and security for this emerging technology. Organizations like the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in the U.S. are actively involved in creating measurement techniques and standards to strengthen competitiveness in the global quantum market. - The United States has been revising its Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to allow U.S. companies to participate more actively in international standards development without being overly restricted by export controls. This is particularly relevant for critical and emerging technologies, including communications, quantum information, and biotechnology. - Corporate strategies of major tech companies are increasingly focused on influencing and leveraging international standards. For instance, Huawei, despite facing geopolitical pressures, continues to invest heavily in R&D and participate in standards bodies to maintain its position in emerging technologies like 5G and beyond.