Will 6G use AI in the physical layer? (Rel 19, 2025ish)

Question

Updated title to include timeline.

Will the first published 6G specification include the use of "AI" in the physical layer?

This means that some part of the physical layer specification assumes the use of data-driven learned algorithms and makes provision for same. Note that there could still be alternative provision for non-AI approaches for certain deployments or in fallback scenarios.

This could include removal of pilots on the assumption that the channel state can be inferred, removal of cyclic prefix on the basis that interference can be mitigated by deep learning techniques, anything involving an auto encoder architecture which spans base station and user equipment, etc.

The 3GPP spec must include this; it's not sufficient for specific implementations to use deep learning to which the spec is agnostic.

The phy is everything from the ADC/DACs through to decoded bits.

Closes when corresponding 3GPP spec is published, expected in rel19 end 2025.

For a longer timeline, see

(https://manifold.markets/embed/Tomoffer/will-6g-use-ai-in-the-physical-laye-ded464411e53)

Manifold Markets · Answer

Unlikely — Manifold Markets prediction market estimates a 17% chance (21 traders, as of Jul 28, 2025).