From 5G to 6G: Has the Time for Modern Random Access Come?

This short paper proposes the use of modern random access for IoT applications in 6G. A short overview of recent advances in uncoordinated medium access is provided, highlighting the gains that can be achieved by leveraging smart protocol design intertwined with advanced signal processing techniques at the receiver. The authors' vision on the benefits such schemes can yield for beyond-5G systems is presented, with the aim to trigger further discussion.