XR Content Demands Strain Wireless Networks

Wireless networks are under increasing strain as the demand for immersive and extended reality (XR) content grows, according to a new report by InterDigital, Inc. and Futuresource Consulting. The report, titled “Media over Wireless: Networks for Ubiquitous Video,” highlights the need for significant network innovation to meet the rising consumer expectations for seamless XR experiences.

The report indicates that video consumption is a major driver of internet data traffic, accounting for 69% of all data in 2024. Social media and gaming also contribute significantly, at 13% and 10% respectively. On smartphones, video consumption is even higher, making up 74% of data usage, driven by streaming services, social media videos, and embedded content.

The Strain on Current Networks

Current wireless infrastructure is struggling to keep up with these demands. The report reveals that 40% of consumers are dissatisfied with network performance. This dissatisfaction is expected to grow as XR device shipments quadruple to 83 million units by 2031. Milind Kulkarni, Head of Wireless Labs at InterDigital, emphasized the significance of immersive entertainment, stating that future wireless systems must adapt to the shift from traditional video consumption to immersive experiences.

XR Growth and Its Impact

The growth of XR is projected to be substantial. By 2037, there could be 130 million 6G-enabled XR devices in use, making XR a key driver of next-generation network capabilities. Futuresource expects XR to become the second major hardware category after smartphones to integrate 6G features by 2030, enabling applications such as city tours, real-time augmented guides, and digital twins.

Kulkarni described XR as a stress test for wireless networks, citing the high throughput and low latency demands as defining use cases for 6G and next-generation video codecs. Advancements in 5G-Advanced and the deployment of 6G architectures are crucial to overcoming these challenges. The report predicts that 6G deployment will align with the maturation of XR ecosystems between 2028 and 2032.

The Future of XR and Wireless Networks

Lionel Oisel, Head of Video Labs at InterDigital, noted that the XR market is entering a pivotal phase. XR entertainment is expected to become a standard as the first 6G standards are released, with potential applications including interactive digital sports venues, real-time augmented city guides, and digital twins.

The report concludes that wireless networks must evolve to unlock the full potential of XR. The next generation of wireless technology will transform immersive content into a global standard of entertainment by addressing challenges such as latency and throughput. This evolution is essential to meet the growing demands of consumers and the rapidly advancing XR industry.