Tanya Weaver Tue 2 Sep 2025
Collected at: https://eandt.theiet.org/2025/09/02/single-all-frequency-6g-chip-achieves-100-gbps-internet-speeds
A 6G chip capable of delivering high-speed internet across all frequencies, exceeding 100 gigabits per second (Gbps), has been developed by Chinese researchers.
As the successor to 5G technology, 6G promises ultra-high-speed connectivity, ultra-low latency and AI integration for smart cities and other advanced applications.
To achieve this, 6G networks will need to operate across a range of frequencies, from standard microwaves to much higher frequency terahertz waves.
A team of Chinese scientists from Peking University and the City University of Hong Kong have developed a new single ‘all-frequency’ chip.
Measuring just 11mm x 1.7mm, the chip is capable of operating across a wide frequency range, including 0.5 GHz to 115 GHz. Currently, it takes nine separate radio systems to cover this spectrum.
“Our proposed system represents a marked step towards future full-spectrum and omni-scenario wireless networks,” said the researchers.
“This enables reconfigurable full-link wireless communications with improved bandwidth, data rates and system functionality compared with previous photonic-assisted wireless demonstrations.”
Made from thin-film lithium niobate, key to the chip design is its ability to integrate all the separate components required into a tiny footprint.
To generate and transmit signals, the chip’s broadband electro-optic modulator converts wireless signals into optical signals. These then pass through optoelectronic oscillators to generate the required radio frequencies.
The oscillators utilise light and electricity to create stable, clean signals spanning from microwaves to terahertz waves.
In lab tests, the system achieved 6GHz frequency tuning in 180 microseconds. This, the researchers say, is significantly faster than current technology. It means the chip is capable of delivering mobile internet speeds exceeding 100Gbps.
The researchers have published a paper on their research – titled Ultrabroadband on-chip photonics for full-spectrum wireless communications – in the journal Nature.
The researchers say they will continue working on their chip design, with commercial 6G networks expected to begin rolling out around 2030.
Meanwhile, another team of researchers within the department of electrical engineering at City University of Hong Kong are developing a novel metasurface antenna tech concept capable of multi-signal transmission for 6G networks.
An article that appeared in the May-June 2024 issue of E+T looks at how the challenges of financing 6G , as well as how the global political backdrop will affect the road to 6G.
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