Nokia, Rohde & Schwarz test AI-driven 6G receiver
Nokia and measurement specialist Rohde & Schwarz have developed an artificial intelligence-powered radio receiver that addresses a major obstacle expected to complicate sixth-generation wireless deployments. The technology significantly extends uplink reach despite the coverage constraints associated with higher radio frequencies planned for 6G systems.
Machine learning algorithms embedded in the device allow operators to build out next-generation networks using their existing fifth-generation infrastructure, cutting rollout expenses and speeding commercial availability. Nokia Bell Labs created the receiver and confirmed its performance with testing gear and protocols supplied by Rohde & Schwarz. The companies plan to demonstrate a working prototype at the Brooklyn 6G Summit on Thursday, November 6.
Real-world trials showed the AI receiver improved uplink distances by 10 percent to 25 percent compared with current equipment. Peter Vetter, who heads core research at Bell Labs, said the approach helps carriers avoid constructing denser cell layouts that would otherwise be necessary to compensate for reduced signal propagation at elevated spectrum bands. The test setup included vector signal generation hardware from Rohde & Schwarz, along with the manufacturer’s FSWX analyzer running inference tasks for the AI processing. Michael Fischlein, a vice president at Rohde & Schwarz, noted the collaboration draws on decades of measurement expertise to refine algorithms before industry standards are finalized.
