6G Will Be Able to Detect People Through Walls and Measure Heartbeats
Sixth-generation (6G) mobile communications will potentially not only provide high-speed data transfer but also serve as a sensor system, detecting the presence of people behind obstacles and analyzing breathing and heartbeats.
ISAC Technology Will Combine Communication and Sensor Capabilities
These new features will be enabled by ISAC (Integrated Sensing and Communication) technology, which combines data transfer and radar capabilities.
It is expected that 6G-enabled devices and antennas will be able to simultaneously provide communication and determine the distance to objects, their speed, and movement patterns.
Artificial Intelligence Will Be Able to Analyze Human Behavior
According to the publication, 6G technology will be able to detect people even behind certain obstacles. Machine learning methods will potentially allow for the analysis of individual human characteristics, including gait, movements, and gestures.
However, experts note that the development of such systems requires special attention to personal data protection.
Experts Warn of Privacy Risks
Data protection experts point out that such technologies could potentially track the presence of people within a signal range, regardless of whether they are using mobile devices.
They believe that obtaining consent from each individual for such data collection could be challenging, so additional controls and protections are needed.
Scientists Are Developing Solutions to Protect Users
Researchers from the Barkhausen Institute in Dresden are working on technologies that will allow users to control the touch functions of devices.
In particular, they are developing solutions to disable ambient scanning functions without disrupting mobile phone service, as well as apps that will notify users about the operation of such systems.
The First 6G Networks Are Expected to Be Deployed Around 2030
Scientists plan to submit their proposals to European standardization bodies. An international meeting of experts on developing the 6G standard will be held in Dresden in September 2026.
Germany has invested approximately €700 million in the development of sixth-generation technology. The first 6G networks are expected to be deployed around 2030.
