Sixth-Generation (6G) Networks for Improved Machine-to-Machine (M2M) Communication in Industry 4.0

The sixth generation of mobile networks (6G) has the potential to revolutionize the way we communicate, interact, and use information for machine-to-machine (M2M) communication in Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0, while also improving coverage in places that were previously considered difficult to access and/or digitally excluded, and supporting more devices and users. The 6G network will have an impact through a combination of many technologies: the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence/machine learning, virtual and augmented reality, cloud computing, and cyber security. New solutions and architectures and concepts for their use need to be developed to take full advantage of this. This article provides an overview of the challenges in this area and the proposed solutions, taking into account the disruptive technologies that are yet to be developed.