Semantic Communications in 6G: Coexistence, Multiple Access, and Satellite Networks

TL;DR

This paper discusses integrating Semantic Communication with traditional methods in 6G, focusing on coexistence, multiple access, and satellite networks to improve efficiency and handle diverse data types.

Contribution

It analyzes challenges and opportunities of combining SemCom with BitCom, including multiple access techniques and satellite applications, for next-generation networks.

Findings

Supports coexistence of SemCom and BitCom in heterogeneous networks.

Highlights NOMA as a key multiple access technique for SemCom.

Proposes semantic techniques for satellite networks to mitigate bandwidth issues.

Abstract

The exponential growth of wireless users and bandwidth constraints necessitates innovative communication paradigms for next-generation networks. Semantic Communication (SemCom) emerges as a promising solution by transmitting extracted meaning rather than raw bits, enhancing spectral efficiency and enabling intelligent resource allocation. This paper explores the integration of SemCom with conventional Bit-based Communication (BitCom) in heterogeneous networks, highlighting key challenges and opportunities. We analyze multiple access techniques, including Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access (NOMA), to support coexisting SemCom and BitCom users. Furthermore, we examine multi-modal SemCom frameworks for handling diverse data types and discuss their applications in satellite networks, where semantic techniques mitigate bandwidth limitations and harsh channel conditions. Finally, we identify future directions for deploying semantic-aware systems in 6G and beyond.