Wireless Data Infrastructure: Data Plane for Intelligent 6G Networks

The rise of intelligent scenarios in future sixth-generation (6G) networks brings unprecedented demands on flexible high-quality data provision and handling. This article proposes the Wireless Data Infrastructure (WDI) as a dedicated data plane for 6G networks to address these requirements, supporting advanced data services beyond current networks. Specifically, we present a comprehensive system-level design of WDI, introducing new data functions and network entities. On this basis, a collaborative data management framework is established, natively integrating data coordination and lifecycle management into the network to enable seamless data flow and cross-domain sharing among distributed base stations and network functions. Subsequently, a two-layer abstraction mechanism is introduced, decoupling data collection and consumption through metadata modeling and container-based delivery. In addition, an intent-driven orchestration approach is developed, allowing flexible deployment and adjustment of functions based on service demands. Finally, an intelligent logistics use case validates the end-to-end workflow of WDI.