This book explores the relationship between telecommunications and the Internet, investigating how wireless mobile systems, from 4G to 5G and the emerging 6G, enable global access to digital services that define modern life. This work provides readers with a holistic understanding of the technical, political, and economic forces shaping global connectivity. 5G, 6G, and AI: The Geopolitics and Social Consequences of Global Connectivity delivers an in-depth analysis of the governance structures, public policies, and regulations governing advanced telecommunications across three major technological powerhouses: China, the European Union, and the United States. Readers will gain critical insights into 5G, 5G Advanced, and upcoming 6G technologies, understanding how radio spectrum allocation, semiconductor supply chains, and undersea cable networks form the backbone of global Internet access. The book examines the financial health and challenges facing the telecommunications industry, particularly the mounting indebtedness of American and European operators, while offering practical strategies for monetizing 5G investments. Enhanced by numerous case studies spanning companies, nations, and continents, the work addresses both the opportunities and challenges of Internet proliferation, including perspectives on reducing online pornography and electronic (smartphone) waste. By connecting technological advancement with governance frameworks and social impact, this book equips readers with the knowledge to navigate the complex intersection of innovation, policy, and global power dynamics in an era of rapid digital transformation. This book is intended for professionals, academics, policymakers, government officials, and regulatory authorities involved in telecommunications, technology policy, and international relations. Additionally, readers interested in understanding the context of achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals will find this work informative and actionable.
