The Trillion-Dollar 6G Opportunity: Spectrum, AI and Network Evolution

6G mobile networks could add $1.24 trillion to the global economy by 2040, equivalent to 0.7% of global GDP. However, according to the GSMA, insufficient spectrum could put as much as $520 billion, or 42% of this opportunity, at risk.

Manufacturing and financial services are expected to be among the biggest beneficiaries, as commercial 6G deployments approach around 2030.

The Road to 6G: AI and Network Coexistence

The transition to 6G will require substantial investment in network infrastructure, software and computing capabilities. Gartner forecasts worldwide Communications Technology and Services spending of $279.2 billion by 2030, driven partly by AI, cloud and next-generation connectivity.

By 2040, more than 5 billion 6G connections are expected worldwide. However, 4G and 5G will remain essential for years to come, creating a prolonged period of multi-generation network coexistence.

For operators, this means supporting new technologies while maintaining interoperability, security and existing services across increasingly complex, multi-vendor environments.

Intelligent Signaling: Connecting Network Generations

Converged signaling infrastructure will play an important role in this evolution. Platforms such as the BroadForward BFX Unified Signaling Core enable operators to manage routing, interworking and security across 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G through a common software architecture.

By reducing technology silos and simplifying network operations, intelligent signaling helps operators modernize existing infrastructure while preparing for future network requirements.

BroadForward Joins the Dutch 6G Initiative

BroadForward is actively contributing to the next phase of network evolution. In July 2026, the company joined Phase II of the Dutch Future Network Services (FNS) programme, a national initiative bringing together industry and research partners to advance 6G innovation.

Running through 2030, FNS focuses on developing next-generation network technologies, including AI-driven software, security and advanced connectivity. BroadForward contributes its expertise in intelligent signaling, network control and multi-generation interworking.

Building the Foundation for 6G

The success of 6G will depend on more than spectrum and radio technology. Secure, flexible and intelligent network infrastructure will be essential to connecting different generations, technologies and network domains.

The road to 6G starts with the networks operators run today. Modernizing those networks and reducing complexity will be critical to turning the industry’s 6G ambitions into commercial reality.