The State of AI-Empowered Backscatter Communications: A Comprehensive Survey

Fang Xu, Touseef Hussain, Manzoor Ahmed, Khurshed Ali, Muhammad Ayzed Mirza, Wali Ullah Khan, Asim Ihsan, Zhu Han

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Abstract

The Internet of Things (IoT) is undergoing significant advancements, driven by the emergence of Backscatter Communication (BC) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). BC is an energy-saving and cost-effective communication method where passive Backscatter Devices (BD) communicate by modulating ambient Radio-Frequency (RF) carriers. AI has the potential to transform our way of communicating and interacting and represents a powerful tool for enabling the next generation of IoT devices and networks. By integrating AI with BC, we can create new opportunities for energy-efficient and low-cost communication and open the door to a range of innovative applications that were previously not possible. This paper brings these two technologies together to investigate the current state of AI-powered BC. We begin with an introduction to BC and an overview of the AI algorithms employed in BC. Then, we delve into the recent advances in AI-based BC, covering key areas such as backscatter signal detection, channel estimation, and jammer control to ensure security, mitigate interference, and improve throughput and latency. We also explore the exciting frontiers of AI in BC using B5G/6G technologies, including backscatter-assisted relay and cognitive communication networks, backscatter-assisted MEC networks, and BC with Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS), UAV, and vehicular networks. Finally, in the discussion section, we summarize the solutions, provide lessons learned and challenges, and present new research opportunities in AI-powered BC. This survey provides a comprehensive overview of the potential of AI-powered BC and its insightful impact on the future of IoT.
Original languageEnglish
JournalIeee Internet of Things Journal
Volume10
Issue number24
Pages (from-to)21763 - 21786
ISSN2327-4662
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2023

Keywords

  • Backscattering
  • Communication
  • Ambient BC
  • Wireless powered communication
  • AI
  • ML
  • RL
  • DRL
  • 6G

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