Читать книгу Shaping Future 6G Networks - Группа авторов - Страница 53

Respondents believe that we can, presumably based on the success of moves toward 5G. However, when asked if the definition of 6G should be led by traditional stakeholders – in other words, operators and vendors – the answer is also clear: users should be driving requirements.

Given that the ecosystem has grown so dramatically and given that it can be expected to diversify still further, this raises questions. Can such a user‐driven definition proceed at the appropriate pace? Vertical sectors are clearly understood as likely to provide the most compelling requirements for 6G – but one issue that is singled out is the fact that, while actors in an industrial sector may know what they need, they may not understand how to convert that into a wireless technology. In other words, some form of mediation between aspirations and physical reality will be required.

Moreover, is there room in the standardization process for all such voices? As one respondent noted, 3GPP “is too complex and [it is] difficult to get engaged as an enterprise.” Others disagree, expressing full confidence in the ability of 3GPP to deliver. And yet, the political storm clouds have been noted – external political pressure is now recognized as a significant new influence that may impact standardization, positively or negatively.

Curiously, for all the support shown for 3GPP (and, indeed, its efforts must be applauded) and for all that respondents recognize the need for new stakeholders to join the process, not all are willing to do so. Only 75% of those surveyed declared an interest in participation. Of course, participation in the activities of an SDO is time consuming and an investment – for many representatives, it seems to be almost a full‐time job. Some stakeholders may simply ignore the process and accept the outcomes that result. Others may find their own path.

Finally, it should be noted that 3GPP, the ITU, and specific industry associations, spanning both those for mobile operators, such as the GSMA, and those for verticals, such as 5GACIA, are seen as the preferred forums for the development of 6G standards by our respondents. However, this does not preclude the emergence of new forums in the future.