The European Union has announced a €104 million investment to support research and development in 6G technology. This funding supports 16 new projects under the Smart Networks and Services Joint Undertaking (SNS JU). These projects aim to help Europe take an early lead in the next stage of mobile network development.
This article explains how the investment places Europe in the global 6G race. It also compares the EU’s strategy with efforts in the United States and Asia. Finally, it highlights the role of early funding in setting future communication standards.
What the EU’s €104 Million Funding Supports
The €104 million supports a new wave of research focused on 6G networks. These 16 projects include work on energy-saving technologies, software-based network design, and early integration of artificial intelligence.
For example:
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SUSTAIN-6G, led by Nokia, focuses on making future networks more energy efficient.
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FLECON-6G studies how to build flexible network architectures.
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AMBIENT-6G explores low-power devices that collect energy from the environment.
The projects involve over 300 partners from 25 countries. Participants include tech companies, universities, and public organizations.
This level of participation shows that the EU aims to create a full ecosystem for 6G development, not just support isolated experiments.
Why Early Investment in 6G Matters
6G is expected to launch commercially around 2030. It will build on 5G with higher speeds, better coverage, and near-instant response times. It will also support more connected devices and new technologies, such as virtual reality and automated transport.
Early investment gives Europe two main advantages:
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Influence in Global Standards
Telecom standards are decided by global bodies like the ITU and 3GPP. Countries and regions that invest early have more input in these decisions. By starting now, Europe increases its chances of shaping how 6G works worldwide. -
Faster Development Cycles
Early funding speeds up research and helps companies test real solutions faster. This reduces the time from concept to market.
If Europe waits too long, it risks relying on standards and technologies built elsewhere. That can make it harder for European firms to compete in global markets.
How Europe’s 6G Push Compares Globally
United States
The U.S. has increased its 6G focus through public-private efforts. The Next G Alliance, formed in 2020, brings together industry leaders to plan for 6G. In 2023, the U.S. government launched NextG R&D programs to explore secure and energy-efficient 6G infrastructure.
While strong in tech innovation, the U.S. lacks a centralized funding model like the EU’s SNS JU. Most U.S. efforts depend on voluntary partnerships and funding from multiple agencies.
China
China has taken major steps in 6G research. Its Ministry of Industry and Information Technology began funding 6G as early as 2019. Huawei, ZTE, and other firms are working on core technologies.
China also launched 6G test satellites to support early trials. State support and long-term planning give China a fast-moving edge, especially in hardware production.
South Korea and Japan
Both countries are leading smaller but focused 6G projects.
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South Korea aims to launch 6G trials by 2026.
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Japan has invested in AI-driven networks and optical tech for 6G.
These nations often work with Europe and the U.S. on joint research, combining their strengths in electronics and advanced manufacturing.
The Role of the Smart Networks and Services Joint Undertaking (SNS JU)
The SNS JU plays a key role in organizing Europe’s 6G strategy. It pools funds from the EU and private sectors. By coordinating efforts, it avoids duplication and ensures results move beyond research labs into real-world testing.
SNS JU also supports collaboration with partners outside the EU. For example, Europe is working with Japan through the 6G-Japan collaboration project. These joint efforts help align regional research and avoid fragmented global standards.
Strategic Benefits for Europe
The €104 million investment is not just about technology. It is a political and economic move. Europe aims to:
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Secure digital sovereignty
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Reduce dependency on foreign tech
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Strengthen its own telecom industry
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Prepare for future demand in smart cities, connected vehicles, and AI systems
By investing early, the EU builds a foundation for long-term leadership. This approach also prepares European companies to compete for patents, partnerships, and exports once 6G becomes mainstream.
Europe’s €104 million 6G funding plan marks a serious step in future-proofing its digital infrastructure. It places the region in a strong position against other global players. Early investment will give Europe influence in setting global standards, boost its tech industry, and ensure secure and reliable networks.
Clear goals, strong partnerships, and steady funding will decide who leads in 6G. With this new funding round, Europe has made its move.
