The EU’s Smart Networks and Services Joint Undertaking has selected 35 new Research and Innovation projects worth €250 million to advance 6G technology through evolutionary 5G enhancements and revolutionary new architectures. These initiatives are organized into four streams covering smart communication components, novel system designs, EU-wide experimental platforms, and large-scale trials in key sectors like automotive, energy, and healthcare. The portfolio aims to reinforce European leadership in next-generation networks while supporting the UN’s sustainable development goals through climate-neutral infrastructure. With a total budget of €1.8 billion matched by industry, the program targets 6G standardization by 2025 and accelerated 5G deployment across the continent.
Keywords: Smart Networks and Services, 6G experimentation platforms, energy-efficient radio networks, non-terrestrial networks, sustainable network infrastructures