Japanese Researchers Unveil Ultra-Compact 150 GHz Transceiver for 6G

In a groundbreaking development, researchers from the Institute of Science Tokyo have created an ultra-compact, low-power radio module operating at 150 GHz, designed specifically for 6G applications. This innovative phased-array transceiver, unveiled at the 2025 Symposium on VLSI Technology and Circuits, represents a significant advancement in mobile communication technology, enabling data rates that could exceed 100 Gbps and offering unprecedented potential for mobile devices.

The sixth-generation (6G) mobile communication technology aims to revolutionize wireless connectivity by achieving data transfer rates far surpassing those of current 4G and 5G networks. To achieve these ambitious goals, the industry is turning towards the sub-terahertz D-band, which ranges from 110 GHz to 170 GHz. However, operating at these frequencies presents considerable technical challenges, including significant signal loss and the necessity for advanced circuit components.

Professor Kenichi Okada, leading the research team at the Institute of Science Tokyo, stated, "Existing D-band transceivers have primarily been developed for base stations or backhaul operations, resulting in large chip sizes and bulky antenna configurations that are unsuitable for integration into user-centric devices like smartphones and IoT devices. Our research addresses these limitations and paves the way for new applications in mobile technology."

The compact transceiver module, measuring just 8.4 mm by 20 mm, integrates several innovative designs that enhance its functionality. Notably, the team developed an injection-locked tripling phase shifter that significantly reduces power consumption and chip area by eliminating the need for local oscillator buffers. This design maximizes voltage amplitude while ensuring precise frequency control, which is critical for high-frequency applications.

The bi-active sub-harmonic mixer included in the design operates at half the local oscillator frequency, effectively mitigating issues related to oscillator leakage. This dual functionality allows the module to maintain high performance in both transmission and reception modes, further enhancing its versatility in mobile communications. The researchers have also integrated an antenna switch directly into the amplifier matching networks, which minimizes parasitic capacitance and signal losses typically encountered in conventional designs.

The implications of this advancement are profound. According to the data presented, the module achieves a maximum data rate of 56 Gbps, with an effective radiated power of 25.7 dBm, while consuming only 150 mW per element during transmission. These performance metrics enable high-capacity wireless communication in compact mobile devices, making it suitable for applications ranging from immersive virtual reality to precision medical procedures and advanced industrial automation.

As the world moves closer to the deployment of 6G technology, the developments from the Institute of Science Tokyo could represent a crucial leap forward. The potential applications of such technology are vast, promising to enhance connectivity in everyday devices and sophisticated industrial equipment alike. The ability to handle high data rates will facilitate innovations in various sectors, including entertainment, healthcare, and manufacturing.

The research highlights the importance of continued investment in advanced telecommunications technologies as we prepare for the next generation of wireless communication. With the successful integration of these innovations, the future of mobile connectivity may soon be transformed, establishing new standards and possibilities for users worldwide. Further studies will be needed to explore the full capabilities of this technology and its impact on global communication infrastructure.