IEEE to Host 6G AI-Native Workshop
The IEEE INFOCOM 2026 conference will feature the first workshop on AI Native Distributed Intelligence for 6G Networks. The workshop aims to define technical requirements and reference architectures for integrating distributed AI directly into Radio Access Networks (RAN) and edge networks. This initiative marks a formal step toward embedding AI as a core component of future 6G standards.
- The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) is expected to begin the standardization process for 6G around 2025, with initial specifications outlined in Release 21. This process will build upon the AI and machine learning frameworks currently being established in 5G-Advanced releases. - A key focus of the workshop is the dual role of AI in 6G, encompassing both "AI for Networks," which uses machine learning to optimize network operations, and "Network for AI," which designs RAN and backhaul architectures to efficiently support AI workloads at the edge. This aligns with the broader industry vision of 6G as a distributed neural network that integrates communication, sensing, and computing. - The AI-RAN Alliance, a collaborative industry body, has established working groups focused on "AI-for-RAN" to improve network efficiency and "AI-on-RAN" to define radio interface requirements for AI applications, indicating a structured industry approach to the topics of the workshop. - Open RAN architectures are considered a foundational element for AI integration in 6G, as they provide the flexibility and open interfaces necessary for multi-vendor innovation and the implementation of AI-driven controllers like the RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC). 3GPP and the O-RAN Alliance are coordinating to ensure their respective 6G specifications are complementary, particularly regarding AI/ML and automation. - Major technology firms are actively investing in 6G research with a strong AI focus. Huawei's research is led by Dr. Peiying Zhu, who is actively involved in 3GPP and IEEE 802 standards development. Samsung Research chairs the 6G Framework Group at the ITU-R and has established research partnerships with institutions like Princeton University alongside Ericsson, Nokia, and Qualcomm. - The workshop's exploration of AI-native architectures includes emerging technologies such as Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC), Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS), and Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), which are expected to be integral components of the 6G framework. The O-RAN Alliance is actively working on enabling NTN deployments, highlighting the synergy between these evolving technologies. - The standardization timeline anticipates that the International Telecommunication Union Radiocommunication Sector (ITU-R) will finalize the technical performance requirements for IMT-2030 (6G) and open the window for technology proposals in 2027, with final decisions expected around 2029. - Alongside the technical integration of AI, significant research and standardization efforts are focused on ensuring the trustworthiness, security, and explainability of AI within 6G networks to meet forthcoming regulatory frameworks like the European AI Act.
