The 6G standards path has two complementary tracks: ITU-R defines the IMT-2030 framework and evaluates candidate radio interfaces, while 3GPP develops detailed, implementable mobile-system specifications. This page records milestones by document status rather than marketing announcements.
Status snapshot
| Milestone | Date | Status at last review |
|---|---|---|
| IMT-2030 framework, Recommendation ITU-R M.2160 | 2023 | Published |
| Draft technical performance requirements | February 2026 | Completed by WP 5D; sent to Study Group 5 for expected December 2026 approval |
| Draft evaluation guidelines | June 2026 | Completed by WP 5D; sent to Study Group 5 for expected December 2026 approval |
| Submission and evaluation process work | 2026 onward | Continuing within the ITU-R work plan |
| 3GPP Release 20 | Current study phase | Includes 6G studies alongside 5G-Advanced work |
| 3GPP Release 21 | Next normative phase | Expected to begin the first 3GPP 6G specifications |
What ITU-R does
ITU-R’s IMT process creates a globally harmonized framework. Recommendation M.2160 defines the objectives, usage scenarios and capabilities for IMT-2030. Technical performance requirements provide criteria for candidate radio interfaces, while evaluation guidelines specify methods and test environments.
Candidate technologies are submitted, evaluated and brought toward consensus. A document completed by a working party may still require approval by its parent study group, so status labels matter.
What 3GPP does
3GPP turns service, architecture and radio requirements into detailed specifications used by the mobile ecosystem. A study item explores options and produces findings. Normative work defines requirements and behavior that implementations can follow.
Release 20 is associated with early 6G studies as well as continuing 5G-Advanced work. Release 21 is expected to mark the beginning of normative 6G specifications. The exact content and schedule can change through plenary decisions.
What “freeze” means
A release freeze does not mean every network immediately implements every feature. It means a defined stage of specifications has stabilized under 3GPP’s process. Vendors still need development, testing and interoperability work; operators still need spectrum, devices and deployment plans.
Different specification groups and stages may freeze at different times. Always check the official portal rather than relying on a simplified timeline graphic.
Next checkpoints to watch
- ITU-R Study Group 5 decisions on draft requirements and evaluation reports.
- Publication of the final approved documents and any revisions.
- ITU submission windows and independent evaluation activity.
- 3GPP plenary decisions on Release 20 studies and Release 21 normative scope.
- Spectrum work at national, regional and international levels.
- Interoperability trials based on sufficiently stable specifications.
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed: September 12, 2026. Standards and research programs change; follow the linked primary sources for the latest formal status.