Apple is already working on 6G tech – but don’t expect it on an iPhone anytime soon
Because 5G is so last year
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With5Gspeeds a winning feature of theiPhone 12series, it seems as thoughAppleis already turning its attention to the future – by developing6Gconnectivity.
According to a job listing spotted byBloomberg, the tech giant is looking to hire a slew of engineers to start working on burgeoning6Gwireless networking technology.
The listing suggests Apple is seeking hires in its Silicon Valley and San Diego offices, and it reads, “You will have the unique and rewarding opportunity to craft next generation wireless technology that will have a deep impact on future Apple products […] In this role you will be at the center of a cutting-edge research group responsible for creating next generation disruptive radio access technologies over the next decade.”
The news follows Apple’s recent commitment to developing its own cellular modems for iPhone, iPad and other devices in-house, a move designed to reduce the company’s reliance on supply partners like Qualcomm.
It seems a logical step, then, that Apple would now pursue the development of 6G technology given its increased independent research capabilities.
It’s also worth noting that the company recently joined a 6G industry group called the Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions (ATIS), suggesting a commitment to working with others to bring the technology to market.
Apple pie in the sky?
Of course, with 5G only made widely available as recently as 2019, 6G connectivity is still a long, long way off.
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Industry experts don’t expect to see the technology roll out for another decade, and it’s a fact Apple acknowledges in the job listing, but it’s clear that the tech behemoth wants to be ahead of the pack when it comes to developing 6G.
In 2020, China successfully launched what it described as"the world’s first 6G satellite"into space to test the technology, which gives you an idea of the development stage 6G is at right now.
Notably, Apple’s approach to cracking the next generation of cellular technology somewhat bucks the trend of history. Typically, it’s not among the first smartphone companies to adopt new communication standards – it was relatively late to the 3G, 4G/LTE and 5G parties – so it’ll be interesting to watch the next few years with a close eye to see which other mobile giants join the race.
If you’re interested to learn more about what 6G connectivity might entail, we’ve put togethera handy round-upof everything we expect to see from the network speed of the future.
ViaApple Insider
Axel is TechRadar’s UK-based Phones Editor, reporting on everything from the latest Apple developments to newest AI breakthroughs as part of the site’s Mobile Computing vertical. Having previously written for publications including Esquire and FourFourTwo, Axel is well-versed in the applications of technology beyond the desktop, and his coverage extends from general reporting and analysis to in-depth interviews and opinion.
Axel studied for a degree in English Literature at the University of Warwick before joining TechRadar in 2020, where he then earned an NCTJ qualification as part of the company’s inaugural digital training scheme.
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