Short-Packet Communications: Recent Advances and Research Challenges

Short-packet communications (SPC) is a key enabler for ultra-reliable low latency communications (URLLC). Unlike the classical asymptotic Shannon regime with long blocklengths, SPC renders standard Shannon capacity inadequate for measuring throughput, necessitating new performance metrics for evaluating emerging mission-critical applications. However, engineering SPC systems presents a formidable technical undertaking, primarily attributable to the intricate rate functions prevalent in the short blocklength regime. Moreover, it becomes necessary to integrate SPC with current wireless technologies and the latest advances towards 6G wireless networks to enhance their URLLC capabilities. In this article, we provide a concise review of SPC, encompassing its fundamental principles, notable research studies, and recent advances. Drawing upon this review, we outline the key challenges that SPC faces in the context of future wireless networks and explore promising solutions.