NTT Docomo conducted outdoor trials using real-time transceiver systems supported by AI technology, confirming use of AI improved throughput by up to 100 per cent compared with conventional methods.

Working with NTT, Nokia Bell Labs and SK Telecom, the operator claimed the outdoor demonstration at three locations in Yokosuka City, Japan, was a world first.

It added the results, which effectively doubled the transmission speed, marked a significant step towards practical 6G systems that combine high wireless transmission efficiency with low-power consumption.

Docomo noted the trials aimed to verify the technology can maintain stable performance in outdoor environments, where radio conditions vary greatly due to temperature, weather and obstacles.

To address fluctuations in the radio propagation environment, which can cause unstable connection quality, the companies developed and tested a technology that uses AI on the transmitting and receiving sides of a wireless interface to optimise modulation and demodulation schemes. They verified the effectiveness of the technology in indoor environments in November 2024.

Docomo said following the outdoor tests it will refine the AI technology under diverse conditions, while collaborating with partners to advance 6G standardisation and implementation.