adoption rateUpdated Feb 2026
5G to 6G Evolution Timeline
Key milestones in the evolution from 5G Advanced to 6G, including standardization, trials, and commercial launch targets.
Data
| Label | Value |
|---|---|
| 2024: 5G-Adv (Rel-18) | Complete |
| 2025: 5G-Adv (Rel-19) | Ongoing |
| 2026: 6G Study Items | Starting |
| 2027: 6G Work Items | Planned |
| 2028: 6G Trials | Planned |
| 2029: 6G Rel-21 Spec | Target |
| 2030: 6G Commercial | Target |
Key Insights
3GPP 6G study items beginning in 2026 mark formal start of standardization.
South Korea and Japan targeting early 6G trials in 2028.
Commercial 6G deployments expected in 2030-2031.
5G Advanced (Rel-18/19) serves as bridge technology toward 6G.
Data Sources
3GPP Timeline, GSMA 6G Report, 6G-AI Research
Last updated: Feb 2026. Data is compiled from publicly available reports, industry analyses, and proprietary research.