Special Issue on AI-Native 6G Networks

Introduction:

6G networks are envisioned to deliver unprecedented levels of performance, characterized by ultra-high speeds, minimal latency and massive connectivity for a vast array of devices. These ambitious goals, however, do come with challenges that extend beyond mere hardware upgrades. The complexity of managing, optimizing and securing such advanced networks needs a more strategic approach. In this context, artificial intelligence (AI) emerges as a critical enabler in this context. Unlike traditional networks, which rely heavily on static and manual configurations, AI-native networks are designed to be inherently intelligent and adaptive. This integration allows for the development of self-organizing and self-optimizing networks that can dynamically adjust to changing conditions, user demands, and environmental factors. Against this backdrop, this special issue aims to explore the research, solutions and practical implementations associated with AI-native 6G networks.

Topics covered include, but are not limited to:

• AI-Native Networks
• 6G Communication
• Artificial Intelligence in Networking
• Autonomous Network Management
• Network Function Virtualization (NFV)
• Software-Defined Networking (SDN)
• Machine Learning for Networks
• Wireless Federated Learning
• Dynamic Spectrum Management
• Network Optimization
• Edge Computing
• Quality of Experience (QoE)
• AI-Based Network Security
• Self-Organizing Networks
• AI-Driven Resource Allocation
• Energy-Efficient Networking
• Network Slicing
• Heterogeneous Network Integration
• Data-Driven Network Design
• Advanced Connectivity Solutions
• Performance Evaluation

Important dates:

• Submission deadline: March 1st, 2025
• First notification: April 1st, 2025
• Revised version deadline: July 1st, 2025
• Final notification: September 1st, 2025
• Publication date: October 2025

Submission instructions:

Please read the Guide for Authors before submitting. All articles should be submitted online via the editorial management system; please select article type AI-Native 6G.

Guest editors:

• Weiwei Jiang (lead Guest Editor)

        Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, China.

        Email: jww@bupt.edu.cn

• Dilbag Singh

        New York University, USA.

        Email: Dilbag.singh@nyulangone.org

• Praveen Kumar Donta

        Stockholm University, Sweden.

        Email: praveen.donta@dsv.su.se

• Shui Yu

        University of Technology Sydney, Australia.

        Email: Shui.Yu@uts.edu.au