Digital Catapult has taken a significant step towards the next frontier in telecommunications with its entry into a consortium focusing on 6G innovation, supported by Horizon Europe. This project, named 6G LEADER, aims to push the boundaries of network advancement by creating smarter, faster, and more sustainable connectivity solutions.
Bringing eighteen industry and academic frontrunners together, the consortium includes major players such as Samsung Electronics UK, Telefonica, Nokia UK, and Accelleran. Their collaboration promotes cross-border innovation and the sharing of knowledge, intending to develop the next generation of telecommunications solutions. The inclusion of Digital Catapult demonstrates its dedication to advancing open, data-driven, and interoperable network technologies.
Core areas of focus are the integration of AI and wireless communications and the creation of sustainable network technologies. These efforts aim to decarbonize the telecommunications sector and hasten the application of deep tech innovations. The organization will work on proof-of-concept demonstrations for open radio access networks (Open RAN) and explore AI-driven enhancement methods. Their contribution builds on prior successes in the realm of advanced connectivity.
The European Commission, through the SNS-JU (Smart Networks and Services Joint Undertaking), backs this initiative to assert Europe’s digital sovereignty and influence future telecommunications standards. Scheduled over 36 months, the project seeks to achieve prominent breakthroughs in network innovation and wireless technology.
Joe Butler, CTO at Digital Catapult, commented: “We’re excited to be a key player in this 6G initiative, having participated in 17 Horizon projects to date, we’re now expanding our work in advanced connectivity with cutting-edge, AI-driven, and sustainable solutions. Through our collaboration with global industry leaders, we’re advancing 6G technology, paving the way for smarter, more efficient networks that will fuel the next wave of digital innovation.”