Recent Advances in Radio Resource Management for Future Cellular Networks

Dear Colleagues,

Radio Resource Management (RRM) is a fundamental component of cellular networks, responsible for ensuring the efficient utilization of the radio spectrum and maintaining quality of service. In the context of 6G and future wireless systems, RRM faces unprecedented challenges due to the explosive growth of applications with highly heterogeneous requirements. These applications demand ultra-low latency, extremely high reliability, massive connectivity, and increased spectral and energy efficiency.

To meet these demands, next-generation wireless technologies are emerging. Examples include massive Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (massive-MIMO), Orthogonal Time–Frequency Space (OTFS) modulation, Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access (NOMA), and the exploitation of unlicensed spectrum bands. Simultaneously, the architecture of cellular networks is undergoing a significant transformation, incorporating paradigms such as Network Function Virtualization (NFV) and Open Radio Access Networks (O-RANs). These advances introduce new challenges for the design and optimization of RRM mechanisms, which must now operate in more dynamic, distributed, and software-defined environments.

This Special Issue aims to present state-of-the-art research in RRM for 6G and beyond, covering theoretical developments, algorithmic innovations, and architectural solutions. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, the following:

• AI and machine learning techniques for intelligent RRM.
• Novel theoretical frameworks, including numerical optimization and game-theoretic approaches to RRM.
• RRM strategies tailored to emerging technologies such as massive-MIMO, OTFS, and Rate-Splitting Multiple Access (RSMA).
• Spectrum sharing and cooperative RRM across licensed and unlicensed bands.
• RRM in diverse 6G scenarios, including integrated space–air–ground–sea networks, massive IoT, reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RISs), and Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC).
• RRM solutions supporting new application paradigms such as federated learning, holographic communication, AI-native networking, digital twins, and the metaverse.
• Green RRM techniques to enhance energy efficiency and support sustainable 6G deployments.

Dr. Yue Wu
Dr. Bintao Hu
Dr. Yuan Gao
Guest Editors

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• radio resource management
• 6G network
• artificial intelligence
• machine learning
• game theory
• wireless communications
• network management