Essential Technological Enablers Toward the Emergence of AI-Native 6G

Abstract

The evolution of mobile communications has progressed from basic voice-centric 1G systems to the highly connected and intelligent paradigms of 5G. However, the exponential rise in data demand, device heterogeneity, and emerging applications such as holographic communications, industrial digital twins, and immersive XR highlight the limitations of current networks. Sixth-generation (6G) wireless systems are envisioned as the first AI-native generation, embedding artificial intelligence as a core component of network architecture rather than a peripheral optimization tool. This paper explores the key enabling technologies that will underpin AI-native 6G, including Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS), Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), Joint Communication and Sensing (JCAS), Semantic Communications, and next-generation AI hardware accelerators. By integrating these pillars, 6G aims to deliver autonomous, adaptive, and service-oriented connectivity capable of meeting unprecedented performance and intelligence requirements. The paper provides a forward-looking perspective on how these technologies converge to establish a foundation for resilient, scalable, and intelligent wireless systems in the 2030s and beyond.