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Optus has achieved real-world mobile speeds of 3.5Gbps in a test designed to showcase the potential of 6G. The test was conducted on upper 6GHz spectrum, which isn't used for 5G and has been earmarked for 6G networks.
6GHz is viewed as a key band for 6G networks because it has greater capacity than the bands being used for 5G, but is more practical than the ultra-high bands used for mmWave 5G. The frequencies used for mmWave 5G are very short-range and are easily interrupted, for example.
The 3.5Gbps speeds achieved in the test are roughly three to four times faster than the upper echelon of typical 5G speeds. In ideal testing conditions, users should be able to achieve between 750Mbps and 1Gbps on Australian 5G networks.
Optus' Chief Technology Officer, Sri Amirthalingam, says the trial is an important milestone in the company's 6G research.
"Achieving 3.5Gbps using upper 6GHz spectrum demonstrates the significant opportunity this band could provide for future networks as demand for data-intensive applications such as AI services, immersive video, cloud applications and connected devices continues to grow," said Amirthalingam.
At this stage, there isn't a fixed timeframe for when 6G networks will launch, with the standard itself not expected to be finalised until 2028. However, speaking to WhistleOut earlier in the year, Amirthalingham said that 6G could arrive faster than anticipated.
"At Optus, we are actively preparing for this shift, working through spectrum considerations, engaging in global standards development, and ensuring we are ready to harness the full potential of the technology for our customers."
Alex Choros
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