5G is barely here, but Apple is already planning for 6G

There are still years to go before the next generation of wireless communication technology arrives.

| More on:

Image source: Getty Images.

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

This article was originally published on Fool.com. All figures quoted in US dollars unless otherwise stated.

For all its design innovation, Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) is not particularly known for being in the vanguard of communications standards, lagging the Samsung S10 5G phone by 18 months before introducing its own model, the iPhone 12.

So it may be a surprise that although 5G is really just coming into its own, Apple is already looking to the future advent of 6G networks. According to a report last week by Bloomberg, the tech giant is hiring research engineers to work on the sixth generation of wireless technology.

The latest generation of wireless network connectivity first got notice after AT&T began updating certain Android phones with a 5G E icon to denote that customers were in areas with enhanced capabilities.

Other carriers didn't take kindly to the messaging because the service was still operating on 4G, and Sprint ended up suing because of it. T-Mobile, which acquired Sprint, launched the first stand-alone 5G network last year that wasn't based on 4G LTE technology.

Samsung's Galaxy S10 was released first in Korea before eventually making its way to the U.S. And though some analysts had doubts Apple's iPhone 12 would be a hit with consumers, the iPhone 12 Pro Max has become the most popular 5G smartphone in the U.S.

Now Bloomberg says Apple is getting ready for the next transition, and though 6G isn't expected to roll out until 2030 or later, the tech company is looking for people to design next-generation wireless communication systems and participate in forums about 6G technology.

As Apple becomes more vertically integrated, including the design of its own computer chips, it may no longer be happy with letting others blaze the trail with new technology.

This article was originally published on Fool.com. All figures quoted in US dollars unless otherwise stated.

Should you invest $1,000 in Apple right now?

Before you buy Apple shares, consider this:

Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now... and Apple wasn't one of them.

The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys...

See The 5 Stocks *Returns as of 30 April 2025

The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. owns shares of and recommends Apple. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Apple. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

Rich Duprey owns shares of AT&T. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Apple. The Motley Fool recommends T-Mobile US. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

More on International Stock News

Business woman with her arms folded stands in front of multiple screens.
International Stock News

How did the Magnificent 7 fare this reporting season?

Let's explore the highlights.

Read more »

A man looking at his laptop and thinking.
International Stock News

Amazon: A good quarter but some concerns

Here's our initial take on Amazon's financial report.

Read more »

Man looks up at apple on his head.
International Stock News

Apple: Growth in a difficult environment

Here's our initial take on Apple's financial report.

Read more »

A woman sits at her computer with her chin resting on her hand as she contemplates her next potential investment.
International Stock News

Why Microsoft stock popped this week

Microsoft stock was up by 9.5% this week.

Read more »

Electric vehicle such as Tesla being charged at charging station.
International Stock News

Tesla searches for Musk successor: Why this matters

Could Elon get the chainsaw from his own board?

Read more »

customers inside and outside a Microsoft retail store
International Stock News

Microsoft shares earnings report: What's the verdict?

Investors moved the Microsoft share price significantly.

Read more »

Warren Buffett
International Stock News

Countdown to Berkshire's AGM: What do investors expect to hear from Warren Buffett this year?

All eyes will be on Omaha, Nebraska this weekend.

Read more »

A smiling woman holds a Facebook like sign above her head.
International Stock News

Meta surges on blockbuster earnings report

It's a good day to be a Meta investor.

Read more »