Unlocking new frontiers with 6G & Space networks
As technology continues to evolve at an astounding pace, we find ourselves at the cusp of a new era that promises revolutionary advancements in the way we communicate and interact. In this transformative landscape, our team is committed to exploring the frontiers of 6G & Space networks. With our three core priorities firmly in focus—affordable connectivity to everyone, high throughput & low latency networking, and low-power devices anywhere—we embark on a transformative journey that seeks to redefine the very fabric of connectivity. By harnessing the power of 6G & Space networks, we strive to bridge the digital divide, enable lightning-fast data transmission, and unleash the potential of ubiquitous and energy-efficient connectivity.
![6G Space - flywheel showing priorities and tech verticals](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/uploads/prod/2023/07/6G-Space-priorities-and-verticals-flywheel-v3-cropped-1024x1024.png)
Our core priorities
- Affordable connectivity to everyone
- High throughput and low-latency networking
- Low-power devices anywhere
Tech verticals
To empower our core priorities and transform the landscape of connectivity, we lead the charge in spearheading cutting-edge innovations across a diverse range of technology verticals. Through our relentless pursuit of innovation in these technology verticals, we are poised to shape the future of 6G & Space networks, realizing our core priorities with unwavering determination.
![space connections 6G - AI for networking; illustration of Ai controlling robotic arms](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/uploads/prod/2023/07/space-6g_AI-for-networking_1400x788-1024x576.jpg)
AI for networking
Harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize networking, creating intelligent systems that optimize performance, adapt to dynamic environments, and enhance user experiences.
![woman wearing a hardhat walking across a factory floor with an overlay of cloud, server and edge-computing icons](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/uploads/prod/2018/10/EdgeComputing_Multi_09_2018_1400x788-1024x576.jpg)
Edge computing
With a focus on edge computing, we bring computational power closer to the source, reducing latency and enhancing real-time processing capabilities.
![space connections 6G - Internet of Things (IoT); concept image of cloud computing technology and Internet of Things](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/uploads/prod/2023/07/space-6g_IoT_1400x788-1024x576.jpg)
Internet of things (IoT)
The Internet of Things (IoT) plays a crucial role in our endeavors, as we integrate an ever-expanding network of interconnected devices, fostering a digitally interwoven world.
![space 6G - spectrum sharing ; color spectrum band](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/uploads/prod/2023/06/space-6G_spectrum-sharing_1400x788-1024x576.jpg)
New spectrum and sharing
Exploring new spectrums like terahertz and spectrum sharing mechanisms, we unlock previously untapped opportunities, maximizing the efficiency and capacity of our networks.
![smart surface; close-up of a reflective prism](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/uploads/prod/2023/06/space-6G_reflective-prism_1400x788-1024x576.jpg)
Smart surfaces
We embrace the concept of smart surfaces, leveraging intelligent materials and interfaces to enable ubiquitous connectivity in our physical environments.
![space connections 6G - space connectivity; illustration of three satellites in communication with Earth](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/uploads/prod/2023/07/space-6g_space-connectivity_1400x788-1024x576.jpg)
Space connectivity
Leveraging the vast potential of satellites and space-based infrastructure to bring seamless and ubiquitous connectivity to even the most remote areas.
![space connections 6G - low power connectivity; Small RFID NFC labels on tip of finger](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/uploads/prod/2023/07/space-6g_low-power-connectivity_1400x788-1024x576.jpg)
Ultra low-power connectivity
Driving advancements in ultra-low-power connectivity, enabling devices to operate efficiently and sustainably, even in resource-constrained environments.
Our innovations
Driven by our unwavering commitment to the core priorities and guided by the diverse technology verticals, we foster a culture of relentless innovation, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in 6G and space networks. Our collaborative efforts encompass cutting-edge research, interdisciplinary expertise, and a pioneering spirit, ensuring that our innovations pave the way for a truly connected, efficient, and sustainable future.
![Image of Sentinel-2 satellite scanning a section of Earth; Photo: ESA/Astrium](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/uploads/prod/2023/06/ESA-satellite-photo_Sentinel-2_1400x788-1024x576.jpg)
Context-aware compression of satellite imagery in space
Vertical(s): Edge computing | Space connectivity
![FarmVibes FarmBeats - image of farm with AI data overlay](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/uploads/prod/2022/10/MS_AI_Agriculture_DataVis_1600x600-4-edited-1024x574.jpg)
FoodVibes: Wireless sensing and communication for food supply chain traceability
Vertical(s): IoT | Space connectivity | Ultra low-power connectivity
![space connections 6G - Kodan; illustration of the Earth surrounded by six computers in space](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/uploads/prod/2023/07/space-6g_satellite-network_Kodan_1400x788-1024x576.jpg)
Kodan: Edgifying satellite applications for on-board computation in space
Vertical(s): Edge computing | Space connectivity
![space 6G - diagram showing low latency distributed downlink for low Earth orbit satellites](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/uploads/prod/2023/07/space-6g_downlink_1400x788-1024x576.png)
Low latency distributed downlink for low Earth orbit satellites
Vertical(s): IoT | Space connectivity
![space 6G - spectrum sharing ; color spectrum band](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/uploads/prod/2023/06/space-6G_spectrum-sharing_1400x788-1024x576.jpg)
Spectrum sharing between satellite and terrestrial networks
Vertical(s): IoT | New spectrum and sharing | Space connectivity