South Korean tech giants Samsung Electronics and KT Corporation have announced a strategic partnership to advance 6G network technologies, focusing on enhancing signal quality and expanding coverage.

The two companies will collaborate on multi-antenna technologies and explore the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in telecom systems to improve network stability and overall performance.

Jong-Sik Lee, Executive VP and Head of the Future Network Laboratory at KT, stated:
“Through this joint research with Samsung Electronics, we expect to secure next-generation network technologies that differentiate the quality of the user experience. We will further strengthen our efforts in developing core 6G technologies to lead future mobile communication innovations.”

A Focus on eXtreme MIMO and the 7 GHz Band

One of the key areas of research will be eXtreme multiple-input multiple-output (X-MIMO)—an ultra-high-density antenna technology designed to improve 6G coverage and data transmission speeds.

The collaboration follows recent developments at the World Radiocommunication Conference 2023 (WRC-23), where the 7 GHz band (7.125–8.4 GHz) was identified as a candidate frequency for future 6G networks. This spectrum is attractive due to its favorable frequency characteristics and potential for high-speed data transfer.

However, the higher frequency of the 7 GHz band presents a challenge: increased signal path loss compared to the 3.5 GHz C-band currently used in 5G networks. To address this, Samsung and KT will research:

• Advanced beamforming technology – Directing signals more precisely to improve signal strength and reduce interference.
• Multi-spatial transmission technology – Using multiple beams to send data to several users simultaneously.
• System architectures for X-MIMO – Managing the large number of antennas required for ultra-high-density 6G networks.

Angelo Jeongho Park, Executive VP and Head of the Advanced Communications Research Center (ACRC) at Samsung Research, added:
“We are committed to developing innovative 6G technologies that enhance both the operational efficiency of the 7 GHz band and the overall user experience. Our collaboration with KT will serve as a key foundation for advancing next-generation communications through reasonable, cost-effective investments.”

AI Integration: Smarter 6G Networks

Beyond hardware advancements, Samsung and KT are betting on AI to make 6G networks smarter and more adaptive. AI-driven solutions could:

• Predict and prevent signal disruptions, improving connectivity in weak-signal areas.
• Optimize network performance dynamically, adjusting to congestion and demand in real time.
• Enhance video streaming and real-time communication, ensuring smoother user experiences.

A Milestone in the Global 6G Race

With global discussions on 6G standardization accelerating, Samsung and KT’s partnership marks an important step in ensuring South Korea remains at the forefront of next-generation wireless technology. By addressing key challenges such as signal degradation at higher frequencies and pioneering AI-driven network intelligence, the two companies aim to position themselves as leaders in the global 6G rollout.