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Samsung Electronics and LG Uplus have formalized a strategic partnership through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at advancing Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) technology. The agreement, signed on May 27 at LG Science Park in Magok, Seoul, sets the stage for joint research and development initiatives to spearhead essential technologies for the 6G era. The effort will be led by Samsung Research, the R&D epicenter within Samsung’s Device eXperience (DX) Division.
Leveraging Existing Communication Networks for Sensing
ISAC technology represents a paradigm shift by utilizing current communications infrastructures to gather environmental data without the need for specialized hardware. This technology operates by analyzing wireless signals, such as those emitted by base stations, which reflect off objects to ascertain speed, distance, and movement direction.
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Unlike traditional methods that rely on specialized equipment like LiDAR or radar sensors, ISAC capitalizes on existing cellular and Wi-Fi networks. The International Telecommunication Union Radiocommunication Sector (ITU-R) has identified ISAC as a critical application scenario for upcoming 6G networks.
Enhancing Safety and Efficiency
ISAC technology is drawing significant attention across various industries for its potential applications in both indoor and outdoor environments. Its capabilities extend to detecting human movements for safety, tracking drones and robots, and monitoring traffic and weather conditions. By utilizing wireless signals, ISAC can identify objects even beyond the visual field of cameras and in low-light conditions, potentially revolutionizing safety and operational efficiency across numerous sectors.
Focus on Real-World Validation and AI Development
The collaboration between Samsung and LG Uplus will focus on identifying viable ISAC use cases and testing technology performance on existing 5G networks and in the 7 GHz band, which is considered a promising frequency for 6G deployment. Initially, efforts will center on enhancing everyday safety and network efficiency.
As part of the research, ISAC-derived wireless data such as location and speed will be integrated with camera imagery to bolster detection accuracy. Furthermore, the partnership will explore the development of multimodal AI technologies to analyze diverse sensory data types, including images, audio, and video.
Samsung Research will focus on developing core ISAC and AI-driven 6G technologies, while LG Uplus will contribute by providing data and establishing field-testing infrastructure based on its expertise in mobile network operations.
JinGuk Jeong, Executive Vice President and Head of the Advanced Communications Research Center (ACRC) at Samsung Research, commented, “ISAC transforms communication networks into advanced sensing platforms, enhancing the 6G user experience. Our collaboration with LG Uplus will help validate these technologies in real-world scenarios, advancing 6G capabilities.”
Sangyeob Lee, CTO and Senior Vice President at LG Uplus, highlighted the importance of real-world testing, stating, “In the 6G era, verifying technology performance in actual network environments is crucial. Our collaboration with Samsung Research aims to strengthen our capabilities and validate future communication technologies.”
Following the release of its 6G white paper, Samsung continues to bolster industry collaborations, including technology demonstrations with global partners at the Silicon Valley Future Wireless Summit in 2025 and the AI-RAN Alliance at Mobile World Congress in 2026. These efforts are poised to advance core 6G technologies, aiming to facilitate safer, smarter, and more efficient experiences.
