Seoul, South Korea – LG Uplus, in collaboration with Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) and Corning, a leading specialty materials company, announced today that it has successfully demonstrated the feasibility of a Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface (RIS) for next-generation 6G mobile communications.

RIS technology offers a promising solution to address the challenges of signal coverage in urban environments and indoor spaces. By intelligently controlling the reflection and transmission of radio waves, RIS can significantly enhance signal strength and coverage in areas where traditional cellular networks struggle.

Addressing 6G Challenges

6G networks are expected to operate at higher frequencies, such as the upper midband (7-14 GHz), enabling ultra-fast data speeds of tens of gigabits per second. However, these higher frequencies are more susceptible to attenuation and blockage by obstacles like buildings and walls, resulting in coverage gaps. RIS technology can mitigate these issues by dynamically adjusting the propagation of radio waves.

Key Benefits of RIS Technology:

Improved coverage: RIS can enhance signal coverage in areas with poor reception, such as indoor environments and urban canyons.
Increased capacity: By efficiently utilizing radio spectrum, RIS can support a higher number of connected devices.
Reduced energy consumption: RIS can potentially reduce the energy consumption of cellular networks by optimizing signal transmission.
Technical Achievements

The jointly developed 6G RIS leverages advanced design techniques from POSTECH and Corning's specialized glass materials. This innovative solution is capable of operating across a wide frequency band, from 7 to 14 GHz, ensuring optimal performance in 6G networks.

LG Uplus has previously conducted successful tests of RIS technology using 5G frequencies, demonstrating the commercial viability of this technology.

Rigorous Testing and Validation

To ensure the reliability and performance of the 6G RIS, LG Uplus conducted comprehensive testing at the Radio Research Institute of the Korea Radio Promotion Association, utilizing Anritsu's 6G test solutions. The results of these tests will be showcased at the "Korea Radio Promotion Week" event, which will be held in COEX, Seoul, from November 18th to 21st.

Looking Ahead

The successful demonstration of 6G RIS technology marks a significant milestone in the development of next-generation wireless networks. As the telecommunications industry moves towards 6G, RIS is expected to play a crucial role in enabling ubiquitous connectivity and enhancing the overall user experience.

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