6G ROI: Why Businesses Need Practical AI Before Upgrading

At Mobile World Congress 2026, the buzz around 6G networks is undeniable. Vendors are already pitching AI-native infrastructure, claiming it will revolutionize connectivity. Yet, for businesses still grappling with the return on investment (ROI) of 5G, the push for 6G feels premature. The challenge isn’t just about technology—it’s about ensuring practical value for enterprises before committing to the next generation.

6G Hype vs. Business Reality

Ericsson and other telecom giants are touting 6G as the future, with promises of AI-driven networks and hardware designed for the cloud. But as one telco journalist noted, “Most businesses are still waiting for the ROI of 5G.” This disconnect highlights a critical issue: vendors are racing ahead, while enterprises need tangible benefits from existing technologies before investing further.

The ROI Gap

• 5G adoption remains uneven, with many companies struggling to quantify its impact.
• 6G discussions often overlook the need for measurable outcomes from current infrastructure.
• Businesses prioritize practical AI applications over speculative future-proofing.

Practical AI: Where Value Meets Innovation

At MWC 2026, the most compelling AI developments weren’t about flashy marketing. Samsung’s Privacy Display, for instance, uses AI to obscure phone screens from side or overhead views—a security feature with real-world utility. Similarly, Lenovo’s T14s laptop, co-developed with iFixIt, showcases modular design that simplifies repairs and reduces downtime. These examples prove that practicality, not hype, drives adoption.

Modular Computing: A Win for IT Teams

Modular devices like Lenovo’s T14s and Techo’s smartphone concept are gaining traction. By allowing easy upgrades and repairs, they reduce costs and extend hardware lifecycles. QR codes for repair instructions and pogo-pin components exemplify how design can align with business needs. For IT departments, this means fewer replacements and less budget strain.

Community-Led Development: A New Model

Jolla’s European-developed phone, built through community preorders, highlights the power of customer-driven innovation. When businesses co-create products, the result is tailored to their specific demands. This model could redefine how telecoms and hardware vendors approach 6G—by listening to enterprises first.

Lessons for 6G Strategy

1. Focus on AI applications with clear ROI, like security or automation.
2. Adopt modular designs to future-proof infrastructure without overhauls.
3. Engage enterprises early to align 6G development with real-world needs.

Conclusion: Prioritize Practicality Over Hype

6G’s potential is undeniable, but businesses need proof that current investments pay off before committing further. By prioritizing practical AI, modular hardware, and community-driven innovation, vendors can bridge the ROI gap. For enterprises, the takeaway is clear: demand measurable value from existing tech before embracing the next generation.

Call to Action: Evaluate your current 5G and AI investments. Are they delivering tangible ROI? If not, it’s time to rethink your strategy before jumping to 6G.

FAQs

1. What is the ROI challenge for 6G adoption in businesses?

Businesses struggle to quantify the return on 5G investments, making it risky to adopt 6G without proven benefits.

2. How does modular computing benefit enterprises?

Modular devices reduce costs by enabling repairs and upgrades, minimizing downtime and hardware waste.

3. Why is community-led development important for telecoms?

It ensures products meet specific business needs, fostering trust and adoption through collaborative design.

4. What practical AI features are gaining traction?

Security-focused AI, like Samsung’s Privacy Display, offers real-world value beyond marketing buzzwords.

5. How can businesses prepare for 6G?

Focus on optimizing current infrastructure and demand measurable outcomes from AI and 5G before investing in next-gen tech.