European Wireless 2026

Reliability and low latency remain central for 6G, but it must also handle ultra-heterogeneity and ultra-high mobility while ensuring scalability, energy-efficiency, and sustainability. Energy-efficient AI and user-centric networking will be needed for adaptive, autonomous operation, alongside strong security, privacy, and trust. To reduce energy and bandwidth usage, and delay, 6G is expected to increasingly rely on goal-oriented communication inspired by Post-Shannon theory. Non-terrestrial networks (NTN), including LEO/MEO/GEO satellites, high-altitude platform stations (HAPS), and airborne relays, will be important to extend 6G coverage beyond dense urban areas and to improve resilience when terrestrial infrastructure is unavailable. Quantum technologies are also becoming relevant in future 6G to achieve stronger security and tighter synchronization under severe resource constraints. Quantum communications, quantum sensing and quantum-enhanced timing could improve positioning and clock synchronisation. Molecular communications may be needed at micro- and nano-scales as in biomedical and industrial environments.