What's Happening?
Interdigital, a major player in 5G technology, has raised concerns about the potential disruption caused by a new waveform technology in the development of 6G. As the industry begins to outline the specifications for 6G, expected to be commercially available around 2030, a debate has emerged over the use of orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) versus orthogonal time frequency space (OTFS) for integrated sensing and communication (ISAC). ISAC could transform mobile networks into a form of radar, with applications in military and consumer sectors. While OFDM has been the standard since 4G, Cohere Technologies, backed by major tech companies, advocates for OTFS, claiming it offers superior accuracy. Interdigital, however, argues that
OTFS would be disruptive and prefers to continue with OFDM, which is already widely deployed in 4G and 5G networks.
Why It's Important?
The choice between OFDM and OTFS for 6G has significant implications for the telecommunications industry. OFDM is deeply integrated into current mobile networks, and a shift to OTFS could require substantial changes to existing infrastructure. This decision will affect major stakeholders, including mobile network operators and equipment manufacturers, who have invested heavily in OFDM technology. The outcome could influence the competitive landscape, with companies like Interdigital potentially benefiting from the continued use of OFDM, while others like Cohere Technologies could gain an advantage if OTFS is adopted. The decision will also impact the development of new applications and services that rely on advanced sensing capabilities.
What's Next?
As the industry moves towards finalizing the 6G standard, discussions and decisions regarding the waveform technology will continue. The 3GPP, the international body responsible for mobile standards, will play a crucial role in determining whether OFDM or OTFS will be used for ISAC. Stakeholders will likely engage in negotiations and lobbying to influence the outcome. The decision will have long-term effects on the deployment and capabilities of 6G networks, potentially shaping the future of mobile communications and related industries.
Beyond the Headlines
The debate over waveform technology for 6G highlights broader issues of innovation and competition in the telecommunications sector. The choice between OFDM and OTFS reflects differing priorities between maintaining compatibility with existing systems and pursuing technological advancements. This decision could set a precedent for how emerging technologies are integrated into established industries, balancing the need for progress with the practicalities of implementation. The outcome may also influence global leadership in telecommunications, as countries and companies vie for dominance in the next generation of mobile technology.
