Andrea Ariano

Industry Innovation and Communication project leader, Schneider, Italy 

Marco Gamba

 Innovation Program Manager, Schneider, Italy

Talk: "5G Supporting Industrial Machines Digitalization: Use Cases and Innovation Methodologies"

Abstract: This presentation will explore the current scenario and emerging trends in industrial machines, highlighting the transformative impact of digitization. We will delve into innovative approaches to integrating digital technologies within industrial machinery, emphasizing practical applications of 5G technology. From proof-of-concept to real-world use cases we will illustrate how 5G could be an enabler to enhance efficiency, connectivity, and automation in industrial settings. Finally, we will discuss potential future evolutions, envisioning the next steps in the digital transformation of industrial machines.

Simone Bizzarri

Project manager, FiberCop, Italy 

Talk: "Advancing Network Automation Systems and Evolving RAN Architectures" 

Abstract: This presentation explores key directions in network automation for 6G, starting from the architectural evolution of the RAN towards a Service-Based Architecture (SBA), which enables greater flexibility and modularity. It highlights how AI/ML techniques can support the automation of network management processes and how their future integration directly within the RAN will enhance efficiency and adaptability. A central role is assigned to Network Digital Twins (NDTs), which provide advanced capabilities for monitoring, simulation, and optimization of network behavior. Finally, energy efficiency is addressed as a fundamental design driver for next-generation networks.

Enrico Buracchini

RAN Plenary Vice Chairman, Senior Project Manager, TIM, Italy

Talk 1: "5G and its Evolutions Related to IIoT"

Abstract: The talk presents the definition and rationale of 5G technologies with a specific focus on Industrial IoT (IIoT) applications. It examines the essential role of 5G in enabling IIoT, discussing benefits such as economies of scale and productivity enhancements. Particular attention is given to the evolution of 5G releases, highlighting key features introduced to address IIoT requirements.

Talk 2: "Overview of Use Cases in Restart IN"

Abstract: This talk offers an overview of the principal use cases (UCs) within the Restart IN framework, analyzing their underlying requirements. The lecture further explores the connection between these UCs and the broader 5G use case landscape, emphasizing the role of 3GPP IIoT-related releases in enabling advanced industrial applications.

Andrea Conti

 Full Professor, University of Ferrara, Italy

Talk: "Location Awareness in xG Networks" 

Abstract: The availability of real-time and precise location awareness is essential for current and future wireless applications, particularly those involving Internet-of-Things and next-generation networks (beyond 5G toward 6G). We will discuss the limitations of traditional positioning and move on to the key enablers for high-accuracy location awareness. Topics covered will include: theoretical foundations, machine-learning-based algorithms, network experimentation, and performance in 3GPP standardized scenarios for 5G and beyond networks.  

Juan Montojo-Bennassar

Vice President of Technical Standards, Head of Cellular Standards and Industrial Organization, Qualcomm– San Diego, USA

Talk: “Where we stand with 3GPP 6G standard” 

Abstract: This talk provides an overview of the 3GPP ecosystem for 5G Advanced and 6G, with a focus on developments within the RAN and SA groups. It presents Qualcomm’s (QMM) perspective on the current status and future developments, including key strategic directions for 6G. The talk will also highlight ongoing R&D activities aimed at advancing 6G technologies.

Maurizio Palesi

Full Professor, University of Catania, Italy

Talk: "Design and Optimization of Domain Specific Hardware Accelerators for IoT Applications"

Abstract: As the Internet of Things (IoT) expands across various domains, the need for energy-efficient, high-performance edge computing becomes critical. This talk explores Domain Specific Hardware Accelerators (DSHAs) as a solution to meet IoT constraints in power, latency, and area. By optimizing hardware for specific tasks—such as sensor data processing and machine learning inference—DSHAs significantly outperform general-purpose processors. The talk will cover architectural strategies, recent advances, case studies, and emerging trends in reconfigurable computing and hardware-software co-design for next-generation low-power IoT systems. 

Lorenzo Patera

 IT Infrastructure Engineer, Bi-REX, Italy

Talk: "IIoT Environment and Its Evolution in Bologna & Palermo"

Abstract: The talk explores the development of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) ecosystem in BI-REX Bologna and Palermo premises, focusing on private 5G networks, key use cases, and future directions. It highlights BI-REX’s 5G public-private infrastructure and its role in enabling smart manufacturing through advanced sensor integration, cloud computing, and containerized services. Real-world applications - such as predictive maintenance and AI-based quality control - demonstrate the value of scalable, real-time data infrastructures. The session also outlines how message-oriented middleware (e.g., Apache Kafka) supports distributed industrial systems and enables next-generation Industry 5.0 scenarios.

Alvaro Valcarce

Head of Department on Wireless AI research, Nokia Bell Labs, France

Talk: "Protocol Emergence via AI" 

Abstract: Today, RAN protocols are agreed at the industry level in a waterfall process that includes research, design, standardization, implementation and testing. This takes years and consumes a formidable amount of resources. Standardization is important to establish consensus between hardware manufacturers and guarantee cross-vendor inter-operability, but these negotiations are not always technically driven. Can this approach be accelerated, optimized and, above all, automated? In this talk, I’ll postulate protocols as the language that machines speak and will describe an ML-based framework to teach independent radio nodes how to develop their own language in a performance-maximization manner.