Bridging the Digital Divide: 6G Networks and Enabling Technologies for Ubiquitous Coverage

Sixth-generation (6G) networks are expected to support an exponential increase in connected devices and address critical concerns such as capacity, coverage, and privacy. However, one significant concern is the digital divide, which refers to the difference in accessibility, availability, and usage of communication services between urban and rural areas. The COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized the need for reliable communication services in rural areas for economic inclusion in online education, remote work, and financial services. In this paper, we examine the three levels of the digital divide: coverage, access, and usage, and analyze suitable communication technologies to mitigate coverage issues and achieve ubiquitous service. Moreover, we explore enabling technologies that can help reduce global coverage gaps. Within this context, we provide a case study involving on-demand coverage and computational services provisioning in remote rural areas to demonstrate how such measures can harness the benefits of digital farming. Finally, we conclude the paper and present future research directions.