Economic Innovation Focus for 6G Mobile Networks

This technical report discusses the economic considerations surrounding the transition from 5G to 6G mobile networks, emphasizing the importance of reducing total cost of ownership (TCO) as a design requirement. It outlines how 6G is being developed with a focus on cost efficiency, addressing the challenges faced by operators in managing resources while delivering high-quality services. The report details the significance of capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX), highlighting strategies for reducing these costs through innovative network designs and migration strategies. The user plane-first design approach is presented as a means to simplify network architecture, enhance efficiency, and support cloud-based deployments. Additionally, the report examines the role of infrastructure and spectrum sharing in achieving cost reductions and improving network performance. It concludes by stressing the need for operators to adopt well-planned migration strategies to minimize disruptions and enhance the economic viability of mobile networks.