SK Telecom announced on November 26 that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Samsung Electronics to lead the development of 6G mobile communication technology, launching a full-scale joint research initiative on artificial intelligence-based radio access networks (AI-RAN).
The partnership is aimed at strengthening their competitiveness in next-generation network technologies and accelerating preparation for future 6G commercialization.
Under the MOU, the two companies will collaborate on key 6G technologies including AI-based channel estimation, distributed multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) transmission and reception, and AI-RAN-driven scheduling and core network solutions.
The joint research will be led by SKT’s Network Technology division and Samsung Research. SK Telecom will leverage its nationwide network operation capabilities to provide real-world testing environments and data, while Samsung Research focuses on developing AI channel-estimation models and advanced distributed MIMO algorithms.
AI-based channel estimation technology enables AI to predict and correct radio signals distorted by buildings and obstacles, improving transmission accuracy. Distributed MIMO connects multiple base stations and antennas to collaborate in data transmission, enabling high-speed connectivity in densely populated areas. Meanwhile, AI-RAN schedulers and core technologies allow the network to optimize resource allocation by autonomously determining the timing and routing of data.
As members of the AI-RAN Alliance, the two companies have already been advancing cooperation. In June, they jointly proposed an AI-based channel estimation solution that was approved at the alliance meeting in Espoo, Finland. They also presented their latest research results at the November general meeting in Boston, continuing their global collaboration.
SK Telecom published Korea’s first 6G white paper in 2023, outlining an AI-centric future network vision, and demonstrated AI-RAN base station technology at MWC 2025. The company also signed an MOU with NVIDIA last October to co-develop AI-RAN technology.
“AI-powered wireless communication is the core of 6G competitiveness,” said Ryu Tak-ki, Head of Network Technology at SK Telecom. “Through collaboration with Samsung, we will secure world-class AI-RAN-based 6G technology and lead the global ecosystem.”
Jung Jin-kook, Head of Next-Generation Communications Research Center at Samsung Research, added: “Through field-driven collaboration with SKT, we will validate AI-based wireless technologies in live network environments and secure key technologies early. We look forward to jointly leading the commercialization of 6G.”
