KT, SNU develop RIS technology for 5G mobile, satellites

[Photo provided by KT Corp.]

KT Corp. announced Tuesday that it developed and verified a cutting-edge reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) technology in collaboration with a research team led by Professor Oh Jung-seok from Seoul National University‘s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.

The technology operates seamlessly on commercial frequencies essential for both fifth-generation (5G) wireless communications and satellites.

During the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2024, KT introduced the technology and outlined its plans to collaborate further with equipment manufacturers, material suppliers, and component companies to integrate it into building and vehicle windows.

RIS technology serves to amplify radio wave coverage by affixing radio wave reflectors, typically made of glass, to building corridors or windows where radio wave transmission is not easy. Its effectiveness varies based on the frequency band, with different structures, materials, and operational methodologies.

The development marks a significant advancement, as it is specifically tailored for the 3.5 GHz frequency band crucial for 5G networks, where extensive coverage is necessary, and the 12 GHz band utilized by KT Skylife’s satellite services.

Earlier, KT successfully developed RIS materials and technologies for various frequency bands, including the 28 GHz millimeter wave band, as well as the 8 GHz and 15 GHz bands, which are potential bands for 6th generation (6G) mobile communications.