Guest Editorial: Special Cluster on Smart Surfaces, Antennas, and Propagation for Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC)

Integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) is poised to be a cornerstone in advancing wireless networks, encompassing 5G and future generations. This visionary technology melds the realms of sensing and communication, optimizing the utilization of wireless resources while fostering a symbiotic relationship between the two functionalities. Under ISAC's umbrella, the concept encompasses two complementary approaches: communication-assisted sensing, which harnesses the wireless network's capabilities for environmental sensing, and sensing-assisted communication, which leverages channel sensing to bolster the efficiency and effectiveness of wireless communication. Together, these paradigms form the foundation of ISAC, heralding a new era of integrated wireless systems.