one6G WG2 releases a new position paper on Agentic AI and Foundation Models at the one6G Summit 2026
one6G Work Item 220 has published its latest position paper, titled “Agentic AI and Foundation Models in Mobile Communication Systems,” during the one6G Summit 2026 in London, UK. The paper outlines a transformative shift away from connection-centric networks toward dynamic, cognitive 6G systems powered by autonomous AI agents and Large Telco Models (LTMs).
Scope
Agentic AI and foundation models are emerging as core enablers for the evolution toward 6G and beyond. The paper addresses the transition from traditional, rules-based networks reliant on predefined procedures toward an “agentic AI-native” mobile communication system. By integrating joint communication, computing, sensing, and AI capabilities, future 6G networks will operate as autonomous, intent-oriented cognitive systems capable of perception, reasoning, dynamic planning, and collaborative execution under explicit policy governance.
A distributed intelligence continuum
A key focus of the paper is the dynamic distribution of model components and AI functions across the device–edge–cloud continuum. To support high-level objectives—such as automated industries and Sustainable Development Goals—intelligence is shared natively across multi-agent architectures. Specific functions within an agentic workflow execute dynamically depending on real-time factors like latency, available computing power, energy resources, and data privacy needs.
The document highlights the critical separation between probabilistic AI reasoning and deterministic network control. While AI agents can creatively evaluate data, predict trends, and negotiate options, operational changes must be validated against strict policies before execution to ensure telco-grade stability, auditability, and trust.
Next steps for trustworthy 6G intelligence
Looking ahead, the authors emphasize that realizing this cognitive network vision requires robust lifecycle management, zero-trust governance, model provenance, and dynamic fallback mechanisms. WG2 calls on the telecommunications community to establish standardized classifications for agent actions based on reversibility and compliance impact, laying the groundwork for an open, flexible, and operationally trustworthy 6G ecosystem.