Since future 6G will operate at extremely low power levels, scientists have determined that the traditional energy leakage from the human body can be inexpensively harvested (ie, a 50 cent bracelet) and employed to run on-person 6G devices, pushing data to smart devices for further upload to the cloud. Furthermore, this could complete the Internet of Bodies pledge where humans in close proximity automatically form private networks to exchange data. ⁃ TN Editor

5G wireless technology is just starting to take off worldwide, but a new study is already speculating on the future of 6G! Researchers from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst say, unlike older technology, 6G could end up using people as antennas.

Specifically, 6G telecommunications could possibly take advantage of Visible Light Communication (VLC), which is like a wireless version of fiberoptics. Right now, fiberoptics use incredibly thin glass or plastic strands to transmit information on flashes of light. These wires are extremely small, but also extremely fragile.

The UMass Amherst team says they have created a low-cost and innovative way of harvesting waste energy from VLC — using the human body as an antenna. Their invention can recycle waste energy to power wearable devices and possibly larger electronics as well.