6G technology can change the way Internet coverage is available

Theo SCMPa research team led by professor Cheng Qiang and academician Cui Tiejun at Southeast University in Nanjing is developing technology for future 6G networks called Metasurface Integrated Sensors and Communications (DISACM).

The metasurface is an ultra-thin planar optical structure, made up of millions of microscopic nanopillars precisely designed to control the phase, direction and intensity of light. In the 6G network, they act as “smart mirrors” that flexibly steer radio waves, helping to cover Internet coverage in every hidden corner.

DISACM uses a configurable smart surface to reshape the wireless transmission environment, helping to improve communication efficiency, environmental sensing and computational coordination. In the smart city simulation, the researcher stacked 10 DISACM modules on the building’s facade, increasing the reference signal power transmitted from the base station (RSRP) by 20 decibels (dB) in the dead zone, while also supporting wireless data transmission at a speed of 400 megabits per second.

In conventional wireless networks, the signal is often obstructed by walls and pillars. New technology uses special electromagnetic materials to cover the wall surface like a “smart skin”. When electromagnetic waves reach this skin layer, instead of passively reflecting, the surface actively controls the reflection state, helping the signal overcome obstacles effectively.

When electromagnetic waves encounter people or moving objects, DISACM will analyze the changes to calculate the target’s position, speed and status in real time, both enhancing communication and sensing the environment. Therefore, the technology is prospectively evaluated in complex or closed environments such as mine tunnels or in large buildings, often with many dead zones.

According to the development team, DISACM not only enhances signal reception in such space, but also provides real-time positioning and environmental monitoring, thus eliminating the need for additional separate specialized equipment and reducing operating costs. When tested in an underground mine tunnel, the module mounted on the tunnel wall and the devices achieved an error of less than 10 cm with real-time positioning, and the RSRP in the signal loss area increased by about 20 dB. The system can provide important technical support for safety monitoring, personnel tracking and emergency communications.

Theo Global Timesin May, China approved test spectrum in the 6 GHz band to develop 6G technology. The country’s first pre-6G test network also went into operation in Nanjing, Jiangsu province in April.

On June 1, Li Lecheng, Minister of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), said that the Ministry has launched a collaborative pilot project in many provinces to promote 6G development, with the goal of establishing a series of independent development solutions by 2029, moving towards commercialization of 6G by 2030.

Theo Bastille Postthe action plan emphasizes strengthening communication integration with artificial intelligence, satellite Internet, and wireless sensor technology to establish 6G standards and build 6G industrial clusters that suit local strengths. Some of the 6G applications that Chinese authorities are targeting include immersive communications, immersive communications, low-range economics, embodied intelligence, and maritime intelligence initiatives.