Integrated Sensing and Communication for 6G: Motivation, Enablers and Standardization

Abstract

Integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) has become a very popular technology as well as a usage scenario since recently. The potential advantages of doubling the spectral and energy efficiency as well as minimizing the hardware cost, at least theoretically, make ISAC a promising candidate for the 6th generation (6G) wireless networks. In this paper, we describe and analyze the motivation of adopting ISAC into future networks from a practical perspective. Key technology challenges and enablers are also introduced, followed by a standardization forecast based on the latest progress and trends in international standardization bodies.