The second day of the 3rd Annual Australian Beyond 5G Connectivity Summit shifted focus to the academic and research side of connectivity, featuring presentations on emerging technologies set to drive the transition to 6G. Researchers from leading universities joined executives from NSW Telco Authority and Telstra to share their perspectives on integrated sensing, artificial intelligence, and innovative hardware solutions, underscoring the valuable combination of research and industry expertise in addressing future connectivity challenges.

The day opened with James Pickens, Chief Digital & Technology Officer at NSW Telco Authority, who shared insights into the development of the state’s digital inclusion strategy. Designed to bridge the digital divide across New South Wales, this strategy envisions 6G-enabled autonomous emergency response systems to support public safety. Pickens stressed the need for trust and standardisation to ensure reliable connectivity across urban and rural settings, highlighting that ubiquitous connectivity can only be achieved through sustained collaboration between government, industry, and academia.

Adding a practical perspective, Telstra’s Wireless Engineering Executive, Sri Amirthalingam, discussed the challenges and opportunities in evolving connectivity, focusing on Open RAN, spectrum management, and the role of AI in optimising networks. He noted that the future of 6G will rely on cohesive networks that integrate both terrestrial and satellite systems, a crucial step in achieving universal connectivity even in Australia’s most remote areas.

Professor Andrew Zhang from the University of Technology Sydney introduced the concept of Integrated Sensing and Communications (ISAC), where networks not only connect people but also sense and respond to their surroundings. Real-world applications, such as WiFi-based human movement monitoring, illustrated ISAC’s potential to enhance safety, efficiency, and automation in various sectors.

Innovation in hardware design took centre stage with Dr Francisco Pizarro Torres’ exploration of 3D-printed antennas for space communication. This approach enables rapid prototyping and the creation of complex, cost-effective designs, paving the way for next-generation satellite systems and expanding the scope of space-based connectivity.

Professor Tao Gu from Macquarie University highlighted advances in wireless sensing combined with AI, demonstrating how these technologies enable smarter, more resilient systems. His work on low-power networks like LoRaWANs and edge AI offers solutions for remote IoT applications by allowing data processing directly on devices, thus reducing connectivity demands and enhancing real-time responsiveness.

On the theoretical front, Professor Lawrence Ong of the University of Newcastle examined the complexities of balancing communication and sensing within ISAC networks. His insights suggested a future where networks are integral to their environments, interacting intelligently to support applications in smart cities and automated systems.

Addressing the data demands of 6G, Professor Xiaojing Huang presented in-band full-duplex (IBFD) technology, an innovative approach that allows for simultaneous transmission and reception on the same frequency. This advancement in spectral efficiency represents a breakthrough in achieving the higher data rates required for the next generation of connectivity.

Professor Min Xu from UTS showcased how multimedia intelligence, driven by machine learning, is transforming smart city planning, healthcare, and retail. By combining video analytics with wireless sensing, multimedia intelligence offers data-driven insights that improve real-time decision-making.

Concluding the day, Dr Akram Shafie from UNSW introduced delay-Doppler modulation, a novel approach designed for high-mobility environments where traditional methods struggle, such as underwater and high-speed vehicular networks. His technique provides enhanced performance in these dynamic scenarios, expanding the reach of future connectivity solutions.

Together, the presentations highlighted the diverse approaches driving the evolution from 5G to 6G, showcasing how academic research and industry experience are working together to shape a future defined by seamless connectivity, intelligent networks, and universal access.