SNS JU April 2025 Newsflash

SNS Projects Contributions @ EuCNC & 6G Summit 2025

At the EuCNC & 6G Summit 2025, the SNS JU projects will once again play a central role in shaping the conversation around future 6G technologies. A broad spectrum of contributions from across the SNS portfolio illustrates the program’s maturity and its alignment with strategic research and innovation priorities.

Several projects such as HEXA-X-II, PREDICT-6G, TrialsNet, ADROIT6G, SUPERIOT, ORIGAMI, 6G-XCEL, 6G-INTENSE, EXIGENCE, BeGREEN, ELASTIC, CONFIDENTIAL6G, RIGOUROUS, iTrust6G, PRIVATEER, ROBUST6G, 6G-SHINE, ECO-eNET, IMAGINE-B5G, 6G-CLOUD, SUSTAIN-6G, FIDAL , 6G-TWIN, SAFE6G and 6G-SANDBOX will be showcased in the exhibition area. These booths or joint booths, many of which are shared to highlight thematic synergies, will offer live demonstrations and tangible outputs, ranging from sustainability solutions and trust frameworks to experimental platforms and trial outcomes.

Workshops remain a strong point of engagement, with many SNS projects either leading, co-organizing, or contributing to thematic sessions. HEXA-X-II, TrialsNet, ORIGAMI, BeGREEN, iTrust6G, 5G-STARDUST, 6G-XCEL, 6GTandem, ECO-eNET, CONFIDENTIAL6G, FIDAL, 6G-SHINE, 6G-TWIN, SAFE6G and 6G-SANDBOX are among those playing an active role in workshops covering key areas such as sustainable 6G design, trustworthiness and security, integrated sensing and communication, non-terrestrial network integration, and experimentation platforms. These sessions often benefit from the collaborative input of multiple projects and working groups, demonstrating the strength of cross-project coordination within the SNS ecosystem.

In addition to workshops, SNS contributions also include tutorials, paper presentations, and special sessions. For example, 5G-STARDUST brings a dedicated tutorial on the evolution of non-terrestrial networks, while projects like ORIGAMI and EXIGENCE are contributing to both scientific papers and special session organization.  6G-TWIN presents a paper which is the result of a joint effort by the consortium to define a tangible architectural vision on digital twins. The SNS-related special and convened sessions include “6G Architecture Blueprint and Key Innovations: A European Perspective”, the “WiTaR: Women in Telecommunications and Research” convened session and  the “SMEs on the spotlight: driving innovation in next generation of communication networks” convened session. These efforts highlight the technical excellence and academic impact of the SNS initiative.

Throughout the event, projects such as BeGREEN, EXIGENCE, iTrust6G, 5G-STARDUST, and FIDAL are also actively pursuing promotional and dissemination opportunities, encouraging the broader community to engage with their content through social media, newsletters, and other outreach platforms.

It’s important to note that this overview is not exhaustive. Additional SNS projects will also be contributing to the Summit in various capacities, and further updates are expected as the event approaches. Nonetheless, the current breadth and depth of participation clearly underscore the SNS JU’s role as a driver of innovation, collaboration, and strategic alignment in Europe’s journey toward 6G.

SNS T&Ps Brochure N°1 to be released @ EuCNC & 6G Summit 2025

The first SNS Trials & Pilots (T&Ps) Brochure will be officially launched during EuCNC & 6G Summit 2025 in Poznań, Poland. This milestone publication will provide an in-depth overview of the validation and testing of 5G Advanced and emerging 6G technologies across a wide range of vertical sectors, including automotive, industry, media & entertainment, healthcare, public safety, energy, smart cities, and transport & logistics.

Initiated by the SNS CO-OP projects in January 2025, the brochure builds on the strong foundation established by the 5G Infrastructure PPP, which previously released four T&Ps brochures and one summary edition, covering a total of 322 5G Trials & Pilots conducted between 2015 and 2024.

Produced by the SNS and 6G-IA Core Team with contributions from over 15 expert evaluators, the brochure will provide a comprehensive overview of SNS Trials & Pilots champions. Each of the chosen projects has generated a 2-page flyer outlining the respective Trial & Pilot. These flyers encompass an overview of the Trial & Pilot, its network architecture, deployment aspects, significant outcomes, and the key attributes to 5G technology. They emphasise the benefits and value delivered by 5G networks, which earlier generations cannot offer, illustrating their 5G empowerment. They either validate a service that can be monetised or/and introduce a unique disruptive innovation in applications or services.

The brochure will serve as a key reference for the research community, industry stakeholders, and policymakers shaping the future of digital connectivity.

SNS Call for Proposals 2025 and Infoday

On 14 April 2025, the Smart Network and Services Joint Undertaking (SNS JU) published its fourth Call for proposals on the EU Funding and Tenders Portal The Call will open from 22 May 2025 to 18 September.

The SNS JU plays a key role in the implementation of an ambitious investment package, by managing an EU budget of €900 million for the period 2021-2027. The private sector will contribute with equal resources over the same period. This Fourth Call will expand on the 80 SNS JU projects that were selected from the first three SNS JU call for proposals.

Potential applicants will have the opportunity to learn more and ask questions at the SNS JU Call 4 Information Day, taking place on 23 May 2025. They can also share their ideas and find partners by attending the SNS brokerage event that will take place on 23 May 2025 and by joining the SNS brokerage platform.

Retained projects from this Call will support research and innovation activities through two complementary streams:

1. Stream B: Advanced research for revolutionary and evolutionary technology advancements, including Topics on 6G Disruptive Technologies.
2. Stream C: Development of a 6G Telco Cloud and service platform experimental infrastructure

SNS Projects @ EU-Japan Digital Week

The EU-Japan Digital Week took place from 31 March to 7 April 2025 in Tokyo, Japan. Organised as part of the EU-Japan Digital Partnership, the event brought together key stakeholders from academia, research, industry, business, and policymaking across the European Union, Japan, and other Indo-Pacific countries. The programme focused on key digital innovations, from 6G to Data Spaces and Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence (AI).

“6G Horizons: Synergies for a Connected Future” Workshop

The SNS projects were proudly represented at the workshop “6G Horizons: Synergies for a Connected Future,” held during EU-Japan Digital Week 2025 on Tuesday, 1 April 2025.

Several SNS projects including 6G-NTN, 6G MIRAI, 6G ARROW, SUSTAIN 6G, and 6G4Society took the stage to share their latest research, insights, and visions for the future of global connectivity. Their presentations highlighted the strategic importance of international collaboration and the role these projects play in advancing Europe’s leadership in 6G innovation.

The workshop provided a valuable platform for dialogue and cooperation, reinforcing the shared commitment of the EU and its partners to shaping a connected, inclusive, and sustainable digital future.

SNS Projects @ BEYOND Expo 2025

BEYOND Expo 2025 took place from 4 to 6 April, in Athens, Greece. The event, first launched in Thessaloniki in 2021, has established itself as a regional forum for digital technology and innovation. The 2025 edition focused on the integration of artificial intelligence across various sectors, addressing both its potential applications and the associated challenges. The exhibition featured over 20,000 m² of space, more than 450 speakers (including 50 international participants), and a large number of B2B and B2G meetings.

The SNS JU was represented at the event through the participation of the 6G-BRICKS project in a panel organised by ISI ATHENA and the Athena Research Center. Held under the auspices of the General Secretariat for Research and Innovation (GSRI), the session addressed the topic “Leveraging Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning for Next Generation 6G Networks.” Speakers included Prof. Christos Verikoukis (6G-BRICKS Project Coordinator), Vasileios Theodorou, PhD, Georgios Gardikis, and Dimitris Katsianis. Presentations covered AI and ML applications in future 6G networks, with specific examples such as Intracom Telecom’s Unify AI and Data Platform, SPACE HELLAS S.A.’s AI-based Security Analytics and its involvement in the PRIVATEER project, and GRNET’s announcement of the forthcoming DAEDALUS supercomputing facility. The session also highlighted ISI ATHENA’s contributions to AI research through its participation in the 6G-BRICKS project and the broader SNS JU programme.

SNS Projects @ EuCAP 2025

EuCAP 2025 was held from 30 March to 4 April in Stockholm, Sweden. The event gathered researchers and professionals working in the field of antennas and propagation. The conference included technical sessions, project presentations, and discussions on both theoretical and applied aspects of wireless communications.

SNS JU Project Contributions to the EuCAP 2025 Workshop

On 3 April, the workshop titled “Sub-THz Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces, RF Front-Ends, and Channels for 6G Networks” focused on ongoing work related to 6G technologies. It featured contributions from several projects funded by the SNS JU and the European Commission, including TERRAMETA, TERA6G, 6GTANDEM, TIMES 6G, and TeraGreen.

SNS JU @ ETSI 6G Monday

ETSI 6G Monday took place on 14 April 2025 in Sophia Antipolis, France. The event showcased the latest advancements in technology research whilst highlighting ongoing (pre)-standards activities in ETSI and early developments and plans in 3GPP for the upcoming Release-20.  With a focus on the European 6G landscape, the programme examined the status of key EC-funded projects that are successfully contributing to ETSI initiatives on standards and open source.

The SNS JU Executive Director, Erzsébet Fitori, took part in the event with a speak during the Session 1:  European 6G Landscape – Maximizing the output of EU research into the global 6G Standard, delivering a talk titled: “Insights from the Vision and Roadmap of the European SNS Research Program”. In the same session, Colin Willcock, Chair of the Board at the 6G Smart Networks and Services Industry Association (6G-IA), delivered a presentation titled “The Future of Connected World: Europe’s Vision for Smart Networks and Services”, Thibaut Kleiner, Director of the Future Networks Directorate at DG CNECT, European Commission, presented “How 6G is Shaping Europe’s Digital Future” and Rui L. Aguiar, Steering Board Chair of Networld Europe, contributed to the session with insights on the Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA).

Several SNS JU projects actively contributed to the event:

• 6G-SANDBOX took the stage during Session 3: From Research to Standards, with Telefónica’s David Artuñedo and Fogus’s Dr. Dimitris Tsolkas presenting on the project’s contributions to open source and its impact on standardization through ETSI and 3GPP.
• Hexa-X-II was represented by Mauro Boldi from Telecom Italia, who shared insights on how the project supports the evolution of 6G within 3GPP.
• FIDAL highlighted its contributions to 3GPP’s work on 6G use cases, particularly its input to the SA1 working group and the recently published TR 22.870 study on service requirements.

SNS JU @ ETSI 6G FORGE

The ETSI 6G FORGE event hosted by EURECOM was held on 15 April 2025 in Sophia Antipolis, France. Building on discussions from ETSI’s 6G Monday, the event brings together a diverse mix of stakeholders with industry leaders, researchers, policy makers, and end-users to address two pressing questions:

• Is 6G development truly aligned with the telecom sector’s business needs?
• How can the transition from 5G to 6G unlock real growth opportunities?

Javier Albares, SNS JU Head of 5G/6G Programs, opened the Keynote Session: Building the Right Kind of 6G at 6G FORGE.

Colin Willcock, Chair of the 6G Smart Networks and Services Industry Association (6G-IA), participated in a session titled “Crafting a 6G Fit for the 2030s.” He discussed the strategic direction of Europe’s 6G initiatives, emphasizing the importance of aligning research and innovation efforts to meet future connectivity demands.

Jean Schwoerer, member of the 6G-IA and Research Manager at Orange, presented at ETSI 6G Forge on the strategic role of network AI in 6G, emphasizing how AI can unlock new value streams and services beyond traditional network optimization.

Rui L. Aguiar, Chair of the Steering Board at Networld Europe, contributed insights on the Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA), focusing on guiding innovation in Europe.

SNS JU projects brought valuable insights to the table at 6G FORGE.

• 6G-INTENSE shared progress on leveraging large language models (LLMs) for intent management in future networks.
• Hexa-X-II contributed to the strategic dialogue, with Mauro Boldi (Telecom Italia) addressing a key question: “Is Sustainability the Main Benefit of 6G?”

OFC Conference 2025

The 2025 Optical Fiber Communication Conference and Exhibition (OFC) took place from 30 March to 3 April 2025 in San Francisco, USA. OFC is co-sponsored by the IEEE Communications Society, the IEEE Photonics Society, and Optica.

OFC is the leading global event for professionals in optical communications and networking, bringing together over 13,500 participants from around the world. The 2025 edition marks the 50th anniversary of the conference, which has been held annually since 1975.

The program includes technical sessions, peer-reviewed research presentations, and an international exhibition showcasing industry-leading companies. Topics will cover current and future trends such as AI, quantum networking, energy efficiency, and converged technologies for 6G networks.

Several SNS projects actively contributed to OFC 2025, showcasing cutting-edge research and demonstrations that support the development of sustainable, intelligent, and future-ready network technologies.

• FLEX-SCALE demonstrated a novel IP Virtual Network Topology (VNT) adaptation over multi-granular optical networks, featuring a Multi-Granular Optical Node (MG-ON) and SDN orchestration powered by ETSI TeraFlowSDN. The live demo showed energy-efficient, scalable IP-optical integration using a European testbed.
• DESIRE6G participated with a spotlight presentation on “Digital Sovereignty in Practice,” highlighting the use of in-band telemetry and machine learning to support a more accountable and transparent Internet.
• 6G-MUSICAL showcased next-generation photonic technologies through partners like UCL, Fraunhofer, and Menhir Photonics. Presentations included a 10 GHz laser and factsheets promoting the project’s advancements in precise and reliable 6G systems.
• 6G-EWOC presented two accepted papers, including one on a turbulence-resilient Fi-Wi-Fi bridge. The project was present at a joint booth, engaging with attendees through technical discussions and printed materials.
• ECO-eNET supported multiple contributions, including a poster on optical transport optimisation for integrated sensing, and several papers on QoT estimation, polarization monitoring, and telemetry analysis. A top-scoring paper showcased hybrid optical-wireless integration in a live metro network using OSaaS.
• PROTEUS-6G presented a paper on the operational benefits of deep learning-based traffic prediction using real-world datasets, highlighting its application to dynamic traffic management.
• 6G-XCEL delivered a live demo of the Cooperative Transport Interface (CTI), demonstrating improved coordination between RAN and PON for reduced latency, better throughput, and enhanced QoS for time-sensitive traffic.

AI & Security Webinar

The AI & Security Webinar held on 30 April 2025, was co-organized by five EU projects ELASTIC, PREDICT-6G, HARPOCRATES, CONFIDENTIAL6G, and RIGOUROUS with additional support from FAITH, CUSTODES, and 6G-Cloud. The webinar focused on the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity in the context of next-generation mobile networks, particularly 6G.

Experts from the participating projects presented recent research, technologies, and approaches to addressing emerging challenges in securing AI-driven systems and infrastructures.

Key topics included:

• Privacy-Preserving AI: Exploring recent advancements in guaranteeing data privacy for distributed AI.
• AI for Network Resilience: Discussing how AI can predict network behavior, detect issues, and enhance security in 6G networks.
• Blockchain and AI in Network Management: Looking at how blockchain and AI can improve resource management and decision-making in 6G networks.

Global 6G Conference

The Global 6G Conference 2025 took place on 10-12 April in Nanjing, China. The event focused on the global 6G vision consensus and standardization, with “Frontier Innovation Driving 6G Development” as its core theme. It showcased the latest technological breakthroughs and application scenarios from around the world. The conference strove to break down disciplinary barriers, promote cross-domain collaboration, and explore how to empower 6G through cutting-edge technologies. The goal was to realize an envisioned future communication network that was intelligent, green, ubiquitous, perceptive, and secure.

The SNS project Hexa-X-II contributed to the conversation with insights from Mikko Uusitalo (Nokia) and Mårten Ericson (Ericsson).

SNS ICE Podcast & Final Event

SNS ICE Podcast: AI & ML as Key Enablers of 6G Networks

A new podcast episode by SNS ICE presents highlights from the SNS ICE webinar on the white paper “AI/ML as a Key Enabler of 6G Networks.” The discussion features members of the SNS JU Technology Board and explores the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in the evolution of 6G networks.

The episode covers key findings from the white paper, AI-driven methodologies applied across 33 SNS JU R&I projects, and the role of AI/ML in automating, optimizing, and enhancing the sustainability of future networks. Contributions from experts including Kostas Trichias (6G-IA), Pawani Porambage (VTT), Chafika Benzaid (UOULU), Marios Avgeris (UvA), and Maria Christopoulou (NCSR “Demokritos”) provide insights into ongoing research and industry perspectives.

SNS ICE Final Event – Showcasing Key Achievements

The final event of the SNS ICE project took place online on 28 April, from 14:00 to 16:00 CEST. This webinar presented the main outcomes of the project, highlighting its contributions to the development of smart networks and services within the context of 6G research.

Organised with the participation of representatives from the European Commission and the SNS JU Office, the event offered an overview of the project’s achievements and its role in supporting the SNS ecosystem.

TARGET-X Webinar

After the success of the first webinar “Robotics Deep Dive: Edge-Controlled Automation with Mobile Manipulation”, the second TARGET-X webinar will be held on Thursday, 8 May 2025, from 14:00 to 15:30 CET. This session will focus on evaluating the impact of 5G use cases in industry, with a particular emphasis on the Methodological Assessment Framework (MAF) developed within the TARGET-X project.

• Webinar Topic: How to Evaluate the Impact of 5G Use Cases in Industry: Insights into a Methodological Assessment Framework
• Speaker: Maximilian Brochhaus, Research Associate at Fraunhofer IPT and TARGET-X Work Package Leader
• Registration Link: https://s.fhg.de/target-x-MAF

The session will introduce the MAF, a framework designed to assess the value of 5G-enabled use cases across industrial sectors. Developed through stakeholder feedback and practical application within the TARGET-X project, the framework incorporates both User-KPI and User-KVI metrics to evaluate aspects such as sensor integration, data accuracy, and process stability.

Participation is open, and attendees are encouraged to share the invitation within their professional networks.

Further information and a schedule of upcoming webinars can be found at: https://target-x.eu/webinars/

6G-SHINE & TIMES 6G Joint Webinar

A joint webinar organised by the 6G-SHINE and TIMES 6G projects will take place on 19 May 2025 at 15:00 CEST, focusing on the topic of “over-the-air” electromagnetic signal processing (ESP) in the context of 6G wireless networks. The session will be led by Prof. Davide Dardari, who will present recent developments in wave-based processing techniques carried out directly in the electromagnetic domain.

The webinar will examine how over-the-air ESP can contribute to reducing energy consumption, system complexity, and latency, offering potential benefits for the design of future communication systems. The discussion will bring together perspectives from electromagnetics, signal processing, and information theory, illustrating their convergence in the evolution of 6G technologies.

The session is open to participants from research, academia, and industry. Access is available here.

WiTaR Second Lunch Salon – A Practical Introduction to Data Protection Compliance

The second WiTaR Lunch Salon, will take place place on Wednesday, 21 May 2025, from 14:00 to 15:00 CEST.

This session is hosted by WiTaR (Women in Telecommunications and Research), an initiative and 6G-IA Working Group dedicated to promoting gender equity and inclusion in the 6G R&I community.

The speaker for the event is Pooja Mohnani, Project Manager at Eurescom GmbH, as she delves into the fundamentals of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and its implications for the 6G research and innovation landscape.

In today’s digital world, understanding how to manage personal data is no longer optional—it’s essential. Data protection is both a legal obligation and a marker of organisational trust. Understanding the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is critical for anyone involved in managing projects, internal operations etc.

This workshop provides a practical and structured approach to GDPR, offering clarity on key principles, roles, and responsibilities, with a focus on real-world application. Participants will gain the knowledge needed to integrate data protection into their daily workflows, support organisational compliance, and foster a culture of transparency and accountability.

Session structure:

• Intro & Objectives – Why GDPR matters and what you’ll learn
• What is GDPR? – Understand who it affects and why
• Core Principles – The 7 pillars of compliant data handling
• Lawful Processing – Knowing when and how you can use personal data
• Individual Rights – What rights people have and how to honor them
• Practical examples and resources

PSCE Conference

The Public Safety Communication Europe (PSCE) Conference will take place on 21–22 May 2025 in Gothenburg, Sweden. The event will focus on key topics relevant to public safety communication and innovation.

Event Topics:

• Total Defence Concept
• The Nordic Cross Border Communication Project
• AI applications for Public Safety
• 6G4Society Workshop: “Beyond 5G technology for Public Safety: Bridging Innovation & Societal Values” (more detailed information will be provided soon)
• European Critical Communication System (EUCCS) updates

Detailed Information on the Conference and the registration form can be found here.

Call to SNS Projects

As part of the event, SNS JU projects developing solutions relevant to public protection and disaster relief (PPDR) are invited to participate. Two formats are available:

1. A poster session (a poster area for the two days of the event + a 5 minute pitch at the start of the conference).

TARGET: projects addressing the PPDR vertical

1. A 20 minute presentation as part of the Conference agenda.

TARGET: projects addressing specifically the topic of AI for Public Safety

For more information and to discuss your participation you can reach out to: secretariat@psc-europe.eu

SCoDIHNet news

Recent Highlights from SCoDIHNet Activities

1. Strengthening Collaboration with DTA Thematic Group
   SCoDIHNet was invited to present its Replicability Initiative at the Smart Connectivity Thematic Working Group meeting hosted by the Digital Transformation Accelerator (DTA). This engagement marks the beginning of a new collaboration with the group, supporting the digital transformation efforts of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs).
2. Engagement with the SEADE Project
   SCoDIHNet has joined the Advisory Board of the SEADE Project, which aims to enhance cooperation between innovation ecosystems in Africa and Europe, building on the networks of DIHs formed under ICT-58. As part of this collaboration, SCoDIHNet has been invited to speak and join a round table during the SEADE R&I Summit in Bilbao on 18 June.
3. Mapping Replicable Use Cases in SNS JU Projects
   An analysis of responses to the SNS CO-OP 2025 survey reveals substantial contributions to replicability:

• 130 replicable use cases from Call 1 projects
• 9 use cases from Call 2 projects
• 12 planned use cases from Call 3 projects
  These solutions will enrich the upcoming SCoDIHNet Replicability Catalogue, offering valuable references for stakeholders seeking proven, scalable solutions.

4. Contribution to IoT Security Innovation
   SCoDIHNet has been invited to participate in the CERTIFY Project Info Day, focused on advanced IoT security. The project will trial secure IoT solutions in collaboration with the IoT DIH in Spain. The event will be held online on 10 June from 09:30 to 12:00.