The Dresden University of Technology (TUD) and the Technical University of Munich (TUM) are setting another milestone in communications research with the launch of the joint research project CommUnity. The project aims to develop the next generation of communication systems that promote technological sovereignty, resilience, and societal prosperity.
A Toolbox for the Future of Communication
CommUnity unites the most cutting-edge areas of communication technology research, including AI-powered, resilient, and energy-efficient 6G mobile networks; quantum communication; and molecular communication. These areas are brought together into an innovative concept. The goal is to develop a flexible toolbox of interoperable technologies, architectures, and design principles that can adapt to society’s evolving needs.
“CommUnity stands for shared prosperity – that is, technologies that enable cutting-edge applications and benefit the general public. Mobile communications have demonstrated how infrastructure can make prosperity accessible to all. However, with artificial intelligence, this broad participation is not yet guaranteed; benefits, control, and value creation are often concentrated in the hands of a few. This is precisely where CommUnity comes in. We are developing open, efficient, and trustworthy communication technologies with integrated AI that make AI-supported communication accessible to all. In this way, AI becomes an infrastructure for everyone,” explains Professor Frank Fitzek, project coordinator at the TUD.
Disruptive Approaches for Industry
CommUnity goes beyond incremental developments, focusing on disruptive research areas that companies currently deem too risky. The project establishes testbeds and demonstrators to create open access structures that enable companies, from large corporations to startups, to test new technologies at an early stage.
“Through open testbeds and demonstrators, we are creating an ecosystem that combines basic research with industrial value creation, enabling long-term innovation. This provides industry and society with the tools necessary to successfully navigate the challenges of digital transformation. Some of these technologies will be essential for the future competitiveness of entire industrial sectors in Germany,” adds Professor Holger Boche, project coordinator at the TUM.
A Project with a Social Vision
CommUnity envisions a future in which communication systems strengthen society through technological sovereignty and shared prosperity, rather than being mere technological extensions. With a clear focus on transferring results to industry and startups, the project is practice-oriented from the outset.
The project is funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space (BMFTR) with a 15 million euro grant and will run until the end of December 2029.
