Despite operators side-eyeing 6G investment, Europe continues to research the technology through several initiatives like Celtic-Next
Turkey’s network automation company Odine announced it is participating in the Celtic Next initiative, centring on the development of network automation technologies for 6G, using Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) architecture and machine learning (ML) techniques. Celtic Next is a European research cluster under the Eureka network, focusing on driving innovation in telecommunication technologies, including the development of 6G. By supporting projects within Celtic Next, the European Commission aims to enhance Europe’s competitive position in global 6G development, aligning with its wider digital strategy and research priorities.
The project aims to create self-organising networks (SoN) that can autonomously detect and resolve network issues, optimise performance and manage multiple machine learning models. Odine is collaborating with prominent European tech companies, international universities, research institutes, and “Türkiye’s leading mobile operator” – which is most likely Turkcell.
Celtic Next is funded through public-private partnerships within the Eureka network. Funding comes from a combination of national and regional governments in the participating countries, as well as private industry contributions from companies and research organisations involved in the projects. Each participating country’s funding body, like TÜBİTAK in Türkiye, contributes to the funding of the projects within their own regions, with support sometimes also coming from European-level programs.
Founded in 1985, Eureka facilitates collaboration between companies, universities, and research institutions from its 47 member countries, as well as associated countries like Canada and South Korea. The network enables businesses and research institutions to access funding, share expertise, and collaborate on R&D projects. Each member country provides resources, and Eureka clusters, such as Celtic Next, focus on specific industries or technological areas.
The right direction
Less well known that some larger rivals in this space, Odine is a global technology company specialising in network transformation and cloud-native solutions. It specifically focuses on providing software-defined networking, network automation, and telecom infrastructure solutions. The company is known for its expertise in network automation, particularly using technologies like O-RAN, AI and ML.
“Our focus on artificial intelligence and machine learning as essential components of future network infrastructure will not only increase efficiency and flexibility but will accelerate the development of self-managing systems,” said Odine CEO Alper Tunga Burak. “These technologies are critical to shaping the future of 6G networks. We are proud to contribute to this project, which is set to redefine the technology landscape and further strengthen Odine’s global presence. Advancements like these are vital for understanding where the industry is headed and guiding it in the right direction.”
He expects the project to play a significant role in transforming the industry by enabling self-regulating networks through the use of O-RAN architecture and machine learning techniques. Odine will develop next-generation ML algorithms designed to enhance network performance, maximise efficiency and enable networks to dynamically configure and optimise themselves. This initiative will also allow for the simultaneous operation of multiple ML models, ensuring the effective management of conflicting decisions.
Other European 6G work
Europe has increased its 6G focus across several initiatives recently. The European Space Agency (ESA) has begun developing a satellite-based 6G testbed in low Earth orbit, aiming to integrate satellite and terrestrial 6G networks. This initiative, led by Open Cosmos with several European partners, aims to explore the role of satellites in 6G connectivity, supporting seamless global communication. The project falls under ESA’s Space for 5G/6G & Sustainable Connectivity programme. Deutsche Telekom is involved with this one.
In February 2024, two new EU-funded initiatives were announced. RISE-6G focuses on reconfigurable intelligent surfaces, which are vital for controlling and enhancing wireless signals in future networks, while NEW-6G investigates the convergence of microelectronics with telecom hardware and software. Both projects are coordinated by the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA)
Meanwhile, building on the earlier Hexa-X program, Hexa-X-II is the flagship EU 6G project funded under Horizon Europe. It focuses on advancing the foundational technologies for 6G, including AI-driven connectivity and addressing sustainability challenges. This initiative involves major industry players like Nokia and Ericsson.