Reconfigurable distributed antennas and reflecting surface (RDARS) has emerged as a transformative solution to address the stringent requirements of future wireless networks. By combining distributed active antennas with reconfigurable passive reflecting surfaces, RDARS integrates the advantages of both active transmission and passive wave control in a cost-effective and energy-efficient manner. This hybrid architecture enables enhanced coverage, improved spectral efficiency, and seamless support for integrated communication and sensing. In this article, we first introduce the fundamental architecture and working principles of RDARS, followed by practical benefits and comparisons with recently proposed intelligent surface variants. We then highlight the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) gains in representative applications of RDARS-aided communication and sensing scenarios, where RDARS demonstrates clear advantages over conventional reconfigurable intelligent surfaces. Finally, we outline key challenges related to practical implementation and resource allocation, and discuss potential research directions. With its unique hybrid mode synergy, RDARS is envisioned to play a pivotal role in shaping the evolution of next-generation intelligent communication systems.

翻译：可重构分布式天线与反射表面（RDARS）已成为满足未来无线网络严苛需求的变革性解决方案。通过将分布式有源天线与可重构无源反射表面相结合，RDARS以成本效益高且能效优化的方式，融合了有源传输与无源波控的双重优势。这种混合架构可增强覆盖范围、提升频谱效率，并实现通信与感知一体化的无缝支持。本文首先介绍RDARS的基本架构与工作原理，随后阐述其实际优势，并与近期提出的智能表面变体进行对比。继而重点分析RDARS辅助通信与感知典型应用场景中的信噪比增益，揭示其相较于传统可重构智能表面的显著优势。最后，我们总结实际部署与资源分配面临的关键挑战，并探讨潜在研究方向。凭借其独特的混合模式协同能力，RDARS有望在下一代智能通信系统的演进中发挥关键作用。