Cisco Joins Verizon's 6G Innovation Forum to Push AI Native Networking
Cisco Systems has joined Verizon's 6G Innovation Forum as a core partner to focus on next-generation wireless technology. The partnership, announced on September 17, 2026, centers on 6G research that integrates wireless connectivity with sensing capabilities and AI native networking architectures.
Cisco plans to apply its AI native networking technologies within the forum to test new approaches to enterprise and carrier-grade infrastructure. As a direct result of this move, Cisco will have a significant opportunity to test 6G concepts in real-world settings.
This partnership is seen as an important development in Cisco's push for AI native networking, which could support more durable revenue and margin expansion. However, it does not resolve risks around dependence on large cloud and AI buyers or the challenge of shifting more business into recurring software.