In the interconnected realm of communications industries, the global communication ecosystem adheres strictly to the established standards. Holding standard-essential patents (SEPs) in communication technology offers a commanding position in industrial operations.
Patent holders reap profits and control the market in communications industries
The era of 5G patent royalties has begun. With the frozen 5G standards R15/R16/R17 and the impending freeze of 5G-A standard R18, along with the signing of licensing agreements regarding 5G patents among major global mobile communication manufacturers, the distribution pattern of 5G SEPs has also been largely determined.
Simultaneously, 3GPP's 6G standardization work is progressively emerging. A basic consensus on the 6G vision has been achieved across the global industry and scientific community. This period serves as an ideal time to strategize for high-value 6G patents. Data reveals that over 70,000 global applications for 6G-related patents exist, with the next 3 to 5 years being a critical period for 6G patent layout.
AI Integration with 5G/6G Networks Faces Challenges
Two distinct trends are discernible in the development of 5G, 6G, and satellite internet. Firstly, the utilization of higher frequency spectra necessitates the deployment of more base stations and antennas, with energy consumption for coverage becoming a significant issue. Secondly, wireless Artificial Intelligence (AI), the hottest topic in 6G research, holds high expectations for technological advancements through AI integration.
However, AI's application in mobile communications remains in the early stages of research and development. Corporate giants leverage their traditional communication sector advantages, while others utilize their technical accumulations in sensors, vehicle networks, and industrial positioning to actively pursue patent strategies.
Despite this, the technical solutions of leading AI companies have yet to deeply penetrate the wireless communication domain. Thus, for communication enterprises, in the current context where AI technology has not yet fully integrated with wireless communications, they encounter greater opportunities than challenges in AI-related patent applications. Relevant enterprises should bolster their R&D investments and plan patent strategies in advance to secure a first-mover advantage when future 6G networks become fully intelligent.
