SK Telecom and Samsung Electronics are joining forces to build the next generation of wireless networks. The two tech giants announced on Wednesday that they signed a partnership agreement to develop 6G technology and conduct joint research on artificial intelligence-based radio access networks (AI-RAN).
This collaboration aims to secure a lead in the competitive race for future network technology. By combining their strengths, the companies plan to create a solid roadmap for the eventual commercial rollout of 6G.
The project will focus on specific technologies designed to make networks faster, smarter, and more reliable. Key areas of research include AI-based channel estimation, distributed MIMO systems, and intelligent network scheduling. In simple terms, AI channel estimation helps the network recognize and correct signal issues caused by obstacles such as buildings or walls. Distributed MIMO allows multiple cell towers to work together, keeping connections stable and fast even in crowded areas. Meanwhile, AI scheduling lets the system decide on its own the best time and place to send data, which improves efficiency.
Yu Tak-ki, the head of SK Telecom’s Network Technology Division, emphasized that combining AI with wireless communication is essential for leading the 6G market. He stated that the partnership with Samsung aims to create world-class technology that will help shape the global 6G ecosystem.
Under the agreement, SK Telecom will use its experience running nationwide networks to provide data and set up the necessary testing infrastructure. Samsung’s R&D branch, Samsung Research, will focus on refining the AI models and algorithms that power the system.
Jeong Jin-guk from Samsung Research noted that this hands-on work will allow them to validate these technologies in real-world settings rather than just in a lab.
Both companies are already active members of the AI-RAN Alliance, a global group working on these exact issues. They successfully proposed a joint technology at an alliance meeting in Finland last June. SK Telecom has actively pursued this path, releasing a white paper on 6G in 2023 and demonstrating new base station technology at the Mobile World Congress earlier this year.
