While the world is still adapting to the widespread adoption of 5G, scientists and tech giants have already set their sights on the next big leap: 6G. Defined as the sixth generation of wireless communication networks, 6G promises not only unprecedented speed but also transformative possibilities that could reshape the digital landscape. Research suggests that 6G could achieve mind-boggling data transfer rates of up to 1 terabyte per second (1 TB/s)—a level unimaginable even with today’s fastest internet connections. But 6G’s ambitions go beyond speed, aiming to introduce innovations like holographic communication, advanced sensor networks, and even light-based data transmission to unlock the doors to the future.
6G research is poised to spark a revolution in communication technology. Currently being tested in laboratories, this technology targets ultra-high speeds by leveraging terahertz (THz) frequency bands. In an experiment conducted by China’s Purple Mountain Laboratories, Fudan University, and China Mobile, THz waves achieved a speed of 206.25 Gbit/s—over ten times the maximum 20 Gbps offered by 5G. Meanwhile, Japan’s Nagoya University has developed three-dimensional waveguides in the 100 GHz band to minimize signal loss. These advancements signal promising progress toward 6G’s potential commercial rollout in the 2030s.
One of 6G’s most striking features is its promise of holographic communication. The three-dimensional holograms we’ve seen in science fiction could soon become part of everyday life with 6G. Imagine attending a business meeting where a holographic image of your colleague appears as if they’re in the same room. However, realizing this technology requires immense bandwidth. Experts estimate that a real-time human face hologram demands 19.1 gigapixels of data, necessitating a 1 TB/s speed for seamless transmission. 6G stands out as the only technology capable of meeting this demand.
Meanwhile, a light-based communication solution called Li-Fi (Light Fidelity) is emerging as a complementary player to 6G. Li-Fi uses LED lights or infrared sources to transmit data via light waves. Compared to Wi-Fi’s radio frequency-based system, Li-Fi offers both faster speeds and greater security. In lab tests, Li-Fi has surpassed 100 Gbps, far outpacing Wi-Fi’s capabilities. A trial at Eindhoven University achieved a download speed of 42.8 Gbit/s over a 2.5-meter distance using infrared light. Moreover, Li-Fi is immune to electromagnetic interference, making it ideal for sensitive environments like hospitals and airplane cabins.
Li-Fi also brings advantages in energy efficiency and security. Since light waves cannot penetrate walls, the risk of signal theft is minimal. Additionally, using a single lamp for both lighting and internet connectivity optimizes energy use. For instance, streetlights equipped with Li-Fi could illuminate cities while providing real-time data to autonomous vehicles. Japan’s NTT is already planning a Li-Fi-supported 6G pilot network for the 2025 Osaka World Expo.
The synergy of 6G and Li-Fi will also revolutionize sensor networks. In the era of the Internet of Things (IoT), trillions of sensors need to be interconnected. 6G’s ultra-low latency and high connection density will enable these networks to operate seamlessly, while Li-Fi will facilitate fast, reliable communication in indoor settings. For example, sensors monitoring patients in a hospital could use Li-Fi to deliver real-time data to doctors.
Of course, significant challenges remain. The THz waves used in 6G are easily absorbed by water molecules in the atmosphere, leading to signal loss over long distances. Similarly, Li-Fi’s reliance on light limits its range, as signals are blocked by obstacles. However, researchers are tackling these issues. Innovations like Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) aim to redirect signals and reduce losses, while hybrid systems could expand Li-Fi’s coverage.
In conclusion, 6G and Li-Fi are set to propel the internet to light-speed territory. As we approach the 2030s, these technologies will not only transform how we communicate but also redefine our daily lives. Holding meetings via holograms, connecting to the internet through light, or living in a world surrounded by sensors is no longer a distant dream—it’s a reality just around the corner.
