The listings are for positions at Apple’s offices in Silicon Valley and San Diego, where the company works on wireless technology development and chip design.The rollout of 6G isn't expected until around 2030, according to forecasts from industry watchers. Apple's move indicates the Cupertino-based firm doesn't just want a seat at the table but wants to steer 6G towards its own goals and vision.
“You will have the unique and rewarding opportunity to craft next generation wireless technology that will have deep impact on future Apple products,“ according to the job announcement. “In this role you will be at the center of a cutting-edge research group responsible for creating next generation disruptive radio access technologies over the next decade.”
People hired for the positions will “research and design next generation (6G) wireless communication systems for radio access networks” and “participate in industry/academic forums passionate about 6G technology.”
The first Apple iPhone devices with 5G support launched a couple of months ago. With no agreed standard just yet, nobody knows what to expect from 6G. Some analysts believe the design goal of 6G will be to enable speeds over 100x faster than what's possible with 5G. For the coming years at least, Apple will still have its hands full with 5G technology. The company is currently designing its first custom cellular modem, which will likely offer 5G connectivity.