Resonant Beam Powering the Future Wireless Networks: Innovations in Communications, Charging, and Positioning

The demand for 6G is rapidly increasing, where requirements for ultra-high data rates, high-precision positioning, low power consumption, and high energy efficiency have been posed. Higher band exploration, i.e., optical wireless transmission (OWT), has the potential to meet these requirements, but achieving narrowband transmission and physical self-alignment simultaneously remians a common challenge. Resonant beam system (RBS), recognized as one of the enablers for 6G, can realize high-efficiency transmission and self-alignment without beam steering control. Besides, RBS can provide high-accuracy passive positioning, satisfying the sensing requirements for next-generation networks. Thus, this article aims to provide a thorough overview of RBS and recent progress on system designs for power transfer, communication, and positioning based on RBS. We also envision how RBS can serve next-generation networks and discuss opportunities and challenges for further development and implementation of RBS. This article provides a manual for investigations on potential enabling technology where one can find some hints on further exploration towards 6G.