Although 5G technology is still rolling out to the consumer market, development has already begun on 6G. Many predict that 6G will take communications even further, marking a new era in wireless technology. It’ll enormously impact multiple industries in various ways, not the least of which is in their supply chains.
Whatever the business, a good supply chain is essential for success. Among other things, supply chains rely on good use of data, financial planning and an understanding of logistics topics such as manufacturing and distribution. 6G technology is primed to make some of these areas even better.
Improving Communication
Good communication is essential for logistics in the supply chain industry. There are a lot of moving parts in a supply chain — manufacturers, warehouses, supplies and much more. A communication breakdown between all of these components can lead to anything from delayed deliveries to lost inventory.
Like its predecessor, 6G technology is predicted to improve communication quality worldwide. 6G is reported to be in development for a 2030 release and it’s set to deliver more incredible download speeds, eliminate latency and reduce congestion on mobile and Wi-Fi networks.
In addition, 6G will support technological advances such as virtual reality and the metaverse. All of these are set to enhance communications across different parts of a supply chain, allowing for more transparent and frequent communication using multiple networks and devices.
Enhanced communication allows for more interconnectedness between each step of the supply chain, leading to increased efficiency. If something goes wrong with one part of the process, the party responsible can let other organizations know faster so the system can make the necessary corrections.
Improving Automated Processes
In addition to improving communications, the network improvement 6G will enhance any automated processes used by organizations in the supply chain, such as manufacturers and distributors.
Automated technology is becoming increasingly important to supply chains. AI systems can make processes more efficient, even if the organization suffers from a labor shortage. Using automation can also decrease the risk of workplace accidents and give human workers relief from an overtaxing workload.
Many of these new technologies connect to each other through the Internet of Things — a technology network that communicates wirelessly. 6G technology is set to revolutionize wired and wireless computer networks, making automated systems greater than ever by allowing them to operate on more stable networks.
In addition, these 6G networks will also be more secure than their predecessors. This will decrease the threat of cyber attackers by making computer systems harder to hack — a threat that continues to be a growing concern as time goes on.
Using Data More Efficiently
One of the most significant advantages of cloud-based artificial intelligence computer systems is their ability to handle large data sets quickly and efficiently. This can help supply chains manage everything from their inventories to their client’s confidential data.
6G networks will significantly improve the productivity of these AI systems — allowing cloud-based software greater storage capacity and better security. 6G technology will also make communication with cloud systems faster and connections stronger. A supply chain reliant on computer systems will be much more efficient.
6G Is Primed to Improve Supply Chains
While 6G isn’t on the market yet, developers are optimistic that it will improve computer systems. Supply chains rely more on automation and computer systems — especially during and after significant worker shortages caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
6G will improve communications between parts of the chain and between IoT devices. Automated systems will become more efficient in the stability of the 6G network. Computer networks will also be more secure, preventing cyber attackers from halting processes.
