T-Mobile (TMUS, Financial) is taking a step into the future of wireless tech, testing out some of Nokia's (NOK, Financial) early 6G gear at its headquarters in Bellevue, Washington, according to a Light Reading report.

The FCC recently gave T-Mobile the green light to run these tests using prototype equipment in the 7125–7525 MHz range — part of the spectrum that could one day support next-generation networks. While the filing didn't specifically name 6G, the focus on future wireless development makes the direction clear.

T-Mobile said the testing is meant to explore how this part of the spectrum might be used down the road, and that it won't interfere with other signals. The goal, the company added, is to help shape what next-gen wireless service could look like for consumers.

Nokia's gear is still in the experimental stage, and these trials are more about early groundwork than anything commercial. But it's one of the clearest signs yet that big telecom players are already thinking well beyond 5G.