In recent years, the evolution of mobile networks has transformed the way we interact with the digital world.
5G has already brought incredible advances in speed and latency, but the future is even closer than we imagine.
6G, expected to start gaining ground in 2025, promises to revolutionize the way we use applications, enabling even more immersive, intelligent and connected experiences.
If today 5G already enables lag-free streaming, interactive augmented reality and latency-free cloud gaming, what can we expect from the transition from 5G to 6G ?
In this article, the topic will be From 5G to 6G, how this new generation of connectivity will impact applications, from extended reality (XR) experiences to the evolution of artificial intelligence and IoT.
From 5G to 6G: The Technological Leap
Before we talk about the applications of the future, we need to understand what changes with 6G in relation to 5G.
See the main differences between these generations :
| Feature | 5G (current) | 6G (future) |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Up to 10 Gbps | Estimates up to 1 Tbps |
| Latency | ~1ms | Sub-millisecond (near-instantaneous) |
| Frequency | Up to 100 GHz | Up to 1 THz (Terahertz) |
| Capacity | Millions of devices per km² | Billions of devices per km² |
| Intelligence | Edge computing | Distributed intelligence and autonomous networks |
The big difference with 6G will be its ability to deliver virtually instant internet , enabling experiences that are currently still limited by the latency and bandwidth of 5G.
This will open up space for a new level of innovation in applications.
More Immersive and Intelligent Applications: From 5G to 6G
With the arrival of 6G, applications will not only be faster – they will be able to offer entirely new experiences , based on extended reality, advanced artificial intelligence and total connectivity.
1️⃣ Extended Reality (XR): A New Virtual World
Virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) comprise extended reality (XR).
Today, the XR experience still faces challenges such as lag, low resolution and dependence on powerful hardware . 6G can completely change this scenario:
- 16K Virtual Reality Streaming: VR games and applications can be streamed without the need for expensive headsets, as all processing will be done in the cloud.
- Ultra-lightweight AR glasses: Without the need for robust processors, Augmented Reality glasses could be more compact and affordable.
- Real-time holographic experiences: Imagine a video call where your interlocutor appears as a 3D hologram in your living room. With 6G, this will be possible.
Impact on Applications: Entertainment apps, virtual meetings and even social networks will be able to explore XR to create more realistic and immersive interactions.
2️⃣ Unlimited Streaming
If 5G has already drastically reduced streaming stutters, 6G will take it to the next level:
- Videos and games in 32K: The extremely high speed will allow content with absurd quality, without buffering.
- Total interactivity: Imagine watching a show and changing the camera angle in real time, as if you were there.
- Real-time AI translation: During a live broadcast, instant subtitles and voiceovers can be generated with impressive accuracy.
Impact on Applications: Platforms such as Netflix, YouTube, Twitch and cloud gaming services will be able to offer quality and interactivity never seen before.
3️⃣ Internet of Things (IoT) on a New Scale
6G won’t just be about smartphones. It will enable anything to be connected to the internet – from smart clothing to entire cities running autonomously.
- Digital health: Wearable sensors will be able to monitor your health in real time and alert doctors instantly.
- Smart homes and cities: Everything will be controlled remotely with precision – from lighting to autonomous transport fleets.
- Autonomous AI apps: Apps will be able to predict your needs before you even ask for something.
Impact on Applications: Health monitoring, transportation and virtual assistant applications will become even more powerful and proactive.
From 5G to 6G: What Can We Expect from 2025 Onwards?
6G is still under development, but 2025 will be a key year for the first tests and applications.
Large companies such as Samsung, Huawei and Nokia are already investing in the technology, while governments and operators are planning the first infrastructures.
Trends to keep an eye on:
✅ Expansion of the Metaverse: With greater speed and lower latency, the metaverse could become a more fluid and accessible environment.
✅ Adoption of holography and XR in everyday life: From work meetings to social interactions, digital presence will become more realistic.
✅ More personalized AI applications: Virtual assistants will become even more efficient, understanding and predicting our needs with greater precision.