OPTI-6G Showcased at FRONT Workshop 2025 in Barcelona
On 10 July 2025, the FRONT Workshop 2025 in Barcelona brought together experts to explore the future of optical networks. Among the invited speakers, OPTI-6G Project Manager, Adam Kapovits from Eurescom, delivered an invited presentation on behalf of the project titled:
“The OPTI-6G Project: Advancing Optical Communication for 6G Networks”
The OPTI-6G project delivers significant sustainability benefits by reducing electromagnetic interference from Home gNBs, improving 5G network throughput and indoor connectivity without causing disruption to the wider network. This advancement not only enhances user experience but can also increase property value. By cutting transmission power and EMF radiation levels, OPTI-6G achieves 90% energy savings and extends device battery life by a factor of ten in indoor environments, marking a major step forward in energy efficiency.
To meet its ambitious performance goals, OPTI-6G integrates advanced technologies such as Optical Wireless Communications using VCSEL arrays for over 1 Gbps broadband links, Disaggregated RAN Solutions delivering 2 Gbps per 100 MHz channel, and AI/ML-enabled cell-free networks that improve service quality while minimising interference. These innovations unlock new industrial possibilities, from high-speed video offloading to sub-centimetre localisation for autonomous vehicles in factories. The project also pioneers advanced positioning techniques, including AoA, RSS, DToA, and AI-powered fingerprinting, aiming for <5 cm accuracy and ultra-low latency — fully aligned with the key performance indicators envisioned for 6G networks.
Looking ahead to project challenges and opportunities, a future key challenge identified by the project is the Optical Beam Steering: a potential to revolutionise capacity, localisation, and efficiency, but with technical hurdles to overcome.
About the OPTI-6G Project
The OPTI-6G project, part of the Smart Networks and Services Joint Undertaking (SNS JU) and funded under the Horizon Europe research and innovation programme, is pioneering the next generation of optical communication technologies. With a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and tackling upcoming challenges, OPTI-6G aims to reshape the way we design, deploy, and experience 6G networks.
About the FRONT Workshop
The FRONT Workshop 2025 — Shaping the Future of Optical Networks — is dedicated to advancing fixed network technologies towards Fibre-To-The-Everywhere/Everything (FTTE). This year’s event expanded its scope to short-reach optical networks for applications from AI clusters to 6G x-haul networks, fostering open discussion among global experts through keynotes, invited talks, and panel debates.
More information: https://front-opticalnetworks-2030.eu/
