The University of Tokyo, Kyocera, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Shimizu Corporation, and NEC Networks & System Integration Initiate Joint R&D Project

on AI-Native Wireless Networks for User-Centric Communications
– Launched under NICT’s Japan-EU International Joint Research Program

The Graduate School of Engineering at the University of Tokyo (Dean: Yasuhiro Kato; Professor: Akihiro Nakao, Nakao Laboratory), Kyocera Corporation (President: Hideo Tanimoto), Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology (President: Kazuhiro Chiba; Professor: Kenta Umebayashi, Division of Advanced Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Institute of Engineering), Shimizu Corporation (President and Representative Director: Tatsuya Shimmura), and NEC Networks & System Integration Corporation (President: Michitaka Ono) have jointly launched a research and development project titled “6G MIRAI-HARMONY: R&D on Optimization of 6G Mobile Systems through Cross-Layer and Multi-Domain AI Integration” (Project ID: 09101), as part of the Japan-EU International Joint Research Projects under the "Beyond 5G (6G) R&D Promotion Program" funded by National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) , Japan.

KDDI Research, Inc. (President and CEO: Satoshi Konishi) is also participating as a research collaborator.

This joint project integrates the Japanese-side initiative “HARMONY” and the European-side initiative “6G-MIRAI” into a single unified effort, officially named “6G MIRAI-HARMONY”.

(Refer to the project structure diagram below.)

The project aims to realize next-generation mobile networks that can flexibly meet diverse user demands such as performance, service assurance, reliability, and energy efficiency. Through close Japan-EU collaboration, the research focuses on developing AI Harmonization technologies—flexible coordination of AI across vertical layers (cross-layer) and horizontal domains (multi-domain).

The project will also conduct proof-of-concept demonstrations using testbeds and real-world industrial use cases, and aims to contribute to international standardization efforts and consensus-building activities through alliances such as the AI-RAN Alliance and O-RAN Alliance.

(Figure) Overview of the 6G MIRAI-HARMONY Project Structure

Project Overview and Roles of Participating Institutions

R&D Theme 1: AI-Native, User-Centric RAN Architecture

(The University of Tokyo, Shimizu Corporation, NEC Networks & System Integration)

Defines an architecture that integrates AI across various mobile network components to enable a comprehensive AI-native and user-centric Radio Access Network (RAN).

R&D Theme 2: Harmonization of Multi-AI Networks

(The University of Tokyo)

Develops harmonized network technologies by integrating end-to-end AI required for seamless communication.

R&D Theme 3: AI-Native RAN

(The University of Tokyo, Kyocera, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology)

Optimizes wireless technologies through AI-driven innovations.

R&D Theme 4: Evaluation of Architecture and Component Technologies via Testbed Demonstrations

(The University of Tokyo, Shimizu Corporation, NEC Networks & System Integration)

Evaluates and verifies component technologies through international testbeds and industry-oriented use cases.

Project Duration

April 2025 – March 2028 (scheduled)

Project Structure

(See diagram below for project structure)

(Figure) Organizational Structure and Role Allocation of Participating Entities