en.Wedoany.com Reported - The French government announced on July 8 the launch of a new project call as part of the "France 2030" plan, aimed at accelerating 6G standard setting, with the goal of achieving the first commercial network deployments by 2030. Led by the Directorate General for Enterprise (DGE) and the General Secretariat for Investment, and operated by Bpifrance, the call focuses on bringing together large groups, SMEs, mid-cap companies, and research laboratories around collaborative projects that combine research with participation in international standardization bodies.

Although 5G continues to be deployed across France, 6G research has already begun. International 6G research started in May 2024 and needs to accelerate from 2027 onwards to achieve the first commercial networks by 2030. France already has an active ecosystem, with the government specifically mentioning the "Future Networks" research program, which brings together 25 research institutions and has already supported 30 projects under the "Future Networks (5G/6G) Innovative Solutions" project call launched in 2023. The initiative also relies on the "France 6G" platform of the Institut Mines-Télécom and several European projects focused on next-generation networks.

Artificial Intelligence and Digital Affairs Ministerial Delegate Anne Le Hénanff stated: "6G standardization is a strategic lever for French industry. This project call will help consolidate our strengths, enhance our expertise, and secure our position in the global telecommunications ecosystem. This is a key investment in our technological and economic sovereignty." The application deadline for this project call is January 15, 2027, with the first screening expected to take place on September 15, 2026.