'Breakthrough in 6G tech is set to change lives'

New microchip technology is being used to accelerate the rollout of 6G, which scientists say could revolutionise every aspect of human life.

Researchers at the University of Bristol have achieved a breakthrough in semiconductor technology, now being used to speed up the development of 6G.

Self-driving cars that eliminate traffic jams and instant healthcare diagnoses from home are just a few examples made more feasible by this new research.

Co-lead author Martin Kuball, professor of physics at the university, said: "Within the next decade, previously almost unimaginable technologies to transform a wide range of human experiences could be widely available."

The futuristic concepts rely on the ability to communicate and transfer vast volumes of data much faster than existing networks. So physicists have developed a way to accelerate the high radio frequency performance.

Semiconductors, also sometimes referred to as microchips or integrated circuits, are made from tiny fragments of raw materials, such as silicon.

They are used in devices such as smartphones and laptops, as well as in vehicles with electronic control systems, remote car keys and sensors.

It is widely acknowledged that the shift from 5G to 6G will demand a radical upgrade of semiconductor technology, circuits, systems, and associated algorithms.

This is because the main semiconductor components involved - the radio frequency amplifiers made from a wonder conductor called Gallium Nitride (GaN) - need to be much quicker, emit greater power, and be more reliable.

The team of international scientists and engineers has tested a new architecture, increasing the efficiently of the GaN amplifiers.

This was achieved by discovering a latch-effect in GaN, which unlocked a much greater radio frequency device performance.

Prof Kuball, who leads the centre for device thermography and reliability at the university, said the latch effect can be exploited for "countless applications".

He added: "[It] could help transform people's lives in many different ways in years to come.

"The possible benefits are also far-reaching, including advances in healthcare with remote diagnostics and surgery, virtual classrooms and even virtual holiday tourism.

"Our innovative semiconductor discoveries are hugely exciting and will help drive forward these developments at speed and scale."

Experts hope to bring these next generation devices to a commercial market within the next decade.

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