AI is putting new pressure on the infrastructure that keeps modern networks running — from optical fiber and data centers to 5G, fixed wireless access and future 6G spectrum.
In this episode of The 6G Podcast, Anshel Sag and Mike Dano discuss NVIDIA and Corning’s partnership to expand U.S. optical manufacturing capacity, why hyperscaler demand for data center infrastructure could create fiber shortages, and what the wireless industry is saying about AI’s potential impact on cell towers and 5G network demand.
They also break down key takeaways from WIA ConnectX, including the role of satellite services, the future of rural connectivity and the ongoing debate over whether direct-to-device satellite offerings are complementary to terrestrial networks — or a longer-term competitive threat.
The episode also covers NTIA’s progress on potential 5G and 6G spectrum bands, including the 7 GHz band, upper C-band timelines and CBRS policy debates. Anshel and Mike also discuss Samsung and Qualcomm’s 5G Fixed Wireless Access uplink test, which could improve cell-edge performance and coverage for FWA services.
Finally, Mike shares the latest update on a proposed two-gigawatt data center in Socorro, New Mexico, including local opposition and new reporting that the project could involve small modular nuclear reactors.
Key Topics Covered
- NVIDIA and Corning’s U.S. optical manufacturing partnership
- How AI data centers are driving fiber demand
- Takeaways from WIA ConnectX
- Whether AI traffic will increase 5G network investment
- Satellite services and the future of rural connectivity
- NTIA’s 5G and 6G spectrum study progress
- 7 GHz, CBRS and upper C-band spectrum updates
- Samsung and Qualcomm’s 5G FWA uplink performance test
- Why uplink matters for fixed wireless access
- The Socorro, New Mexico data center debate
- Nuclear power, local opposition and AI compute demand
Watch the full episode here:
Disclaimer: This show is for information and entertainment purposes only. While we will discuss publicly traded companies on this show, its contents should not be taken as investment advice.
