Nokia and Rohde & Schwarz have jointly developed a 6G radio receiver that uses artificial intelligence to boost uplink distance and overcome one of the biggest challenges of next-generation mobile networks — coverage limitations at higher frequencies. The companies will showcase the proof-of-concept receiver at the Brooklyn 6G Summit on November 6, 2025.
Developed by Nokia Bell Labs and validated with Rohde & Schwarz 6G test equipment, the AI-powered receiver leverages machine learning to identify and compensate for distortion in wireless signals. Testing under real-world conditions has shown uplink distance improvements of 10% to 25% over current receiver technologies. This advancement could allow mobile operators to expand 6G coverage using their existing 5G infrastructure, reducing the need for dense network deployments and accelerating rollout timelines.
The receiver design uses Rohde & Schwarz’s SMW200A vector signal generator for uplink signal generation and channel emulation, while the new FSWX signal and spectrum analyzer performs AI inference for the Nokia system. In addition to greater coverage, the technology improves throughput and power efficiency, providing multiple gains for future 6G networks.
“By boosting the coverage of 6G receivers, AI technology will help us build 6G infrastructure over current 5G footprints,” said Peter Vetter, President, Core Research, Bell Labs, Nokia.
🌐 Analysis:
This collaboration highlights the growing integration of AI in 6G physical-layer design, a key theme as pre-standardization work accelerates globally. Nokia Bell Labs continues to lead research in AI-native air interfaces, complementing its earlier work in reconfigurable intelligent surfaces and sub-THz spectrum trials. For Rohde & Schwarz, the partnership reinforces its role in shaping next-gen test methodologies for adaptive, software-defined radio systems — positioning both firms at the forefront of the transition from traditional hardware-driven to AI-assisted radio architectures.
