ETSI establishes new group to develop semantic communications for 6G

The European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) has established a new Industry Specification Group on Semantic Technologies in AI-Native Networks (ISG SEM) to advance semantic communications and prepare technical foundations for future 6G standardisation.

Unlike traditional communication networks, which focus on accurately transmitting data, semantic communications aim to convey the meaning and information relevant to a particular task. This means that networks do not necessarily need to transmit all the original data, potentially allowing more efficient use of network resources. The approach could support applications such as autonomous AI systems, digital twins and robotics.

The new group will bring together industry and research organisations to coordinate work on semantic technologies and establish common technical foundations. Its activities will include identifying key use cases, developing performance metrics and evaluation methods, and defining architectural frameworks and interfaces.

ISG SEM will also examine how artificial intelligence and machine learning can be integrated into semantic communications, including related privacy and security requirements. Proof-of-concept initiatives and trials will be used to evaluate emerging technologies.

The initiative aims to translate ongoing research into interoperable technical foundations that can inform future standards, including work within 3GPP and the International Telecommunication Union’s IMT-2030 framework.

According to Emilio Calvanese Strinati, convenor of ISG SEM, a common industry approach will be needed to realise the potential of networks that can understand and prioritise relevant information as 6G develops.

Further information about the group’s mission and activities is available on the ETSI website.