What Are 6G Air Interface Options

The 6G Air Interface Options represent a significant evolution in wireless communication, introducing advanced and unconventional methods for data transmission to meet the demands of future networks. These air interface technologies are designed to support ultra-high data rates, ultra-low latency, and massive connectivity. Among the most promising are Terahertz (THz) Communication, which utilizes extremely high frequencies to deliver unprecedented bandwidth, and Visible Light Communication (VLC), which leverages LED lighting infrastructure for data transmission, making it ideal for indoor environments where traditional radio signals may struggle.

Other innovative 6G air interface options include Orbital Angular Momentum (OAM) Communication, which encodes data in the twisted phase of electromagnetic waves, allowing for higher capacity and improved spectral efficiency. Molecular Communication represents a bio-inspired technique that uses molecules instead of electromagnetic waves, suitable for nanoscale and biomedical applications. Additionally, Drone-based Communication offers flexible and rapid deployment of network nodes, which can be crucial during emergencies or in remote areas. Holographic Communication also emerges as a cutting-edge use case, demanding sophisticated signal processing tasks and ultra-reliable transmission to enable real-time, three-dimensional interaction.

To support these emerging interfaces, researchers are exploring the development of an AI-native air interface, which integrates machine learning directly into the signal processing and network management layers. This approach allows networks to intelligently adapt to changing conditions, optimize resource allocation, and reduce latency in real time. As 6G air interface options become more diverse and complex, AI will play a critical role in orchestrating and maintaining efficient communication across multiple technologies, ultimately shaping the foundation of the 6G era.