This report explores how Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) will enhance future mobile networks by enabling them to simultaneously communicate and sense their environment, unlocking powerful new use cases and revenue opportunities.
ISAC allows mobile networks to detect passive objects using the same or different radio signals deployed for communications, while JSAC (Joint Sensing and Communication) allows the same radio signals to be used. By embedding sensing into cellular infrastructure, networks gain capabilities such as object detection, motion tracking, and spatial awareness—without requiring direct device connectivity.
Key findings from the Transforming Industries with Integrated Sensing and Communication white paper include:
- Dual-Purpose Functionality: ISAC systems leverage shared radio signals for both communication and sensing tasks, creating an efficient and multifunctional network design.
- Expansive Use Case Landscape: ISAC unlocks high-impact applications across public safety, healthcare, transportation, industrial automation, and immersive experiences. Examples include UAV traffic coordination, emergency response, fall detection, and smart city infrastructure.
- New Monetization Models: The concept of “Sensing as a Service” opens revenue channels for mobile operators, allowing them to offer enterprises valuable location, movement, and object recognition data through API-based platforms.
- Technical and Operational Challenges: Critical challenges includeco-designing waveforms for dual functions, mitigating interference, and implementing edge-based AI. Real-time resource management and scalable architecture are essential to realizing ISAC’s full potential.
- Standardization Momentum: Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) has initiated ISAC work in 5G-Advanced and 6G beginning with Release 19, with anticipated advancements in Releases 20 and 21. Ecosystem collaboration among vendors, academia, and regulatory bodies is key to mainstream adoption.
“ISAC development is a cornerstone for enabling context-aware services and digital twin technologies in 6G,” said Amitava Ghosh, Nokia Fellow and key contributor to the report. “It also opens the door for carriers to offer advanced, data-driven services that improve safety, streamline automation, and support next-generation mobility.”
