The main objective of 5G and beyond networks is to provide an optimal user experience in terms of throughput and reliability, irrespective of location and time. To achieve this, traditional fixed macro base station deployments are being replaced by more innovative and flexible solutions, such as wireless backhaul and relays. This article focuses on the evolution and standardization of these advancements, which are shaping the electromagnetic landscape. Specifically, we explore Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) nodes, which offer a cost-efficient and agile alternative to fiber backhaul. We also discuss Network-Controlled Repeaters (NCRs) and the emergence of Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) actively adapting the wireless environment. The article provides an overview of the 5G features and ongoing developments in 3GPP Release 18 related to these intelligent EM entities, highlighting the expected evolution of future wireless networks in terms of architecture, operations, and control signals.

翻译：5G及未来网络的主要目标，是无论在何时何地，都能为用户提供最优的吞吐量和可靠性体验。为此，传统的固定宏基站部署正被更创新、更灵活的解决方案所替代，例如无线回传和中继。本文聚焦于这些正在塑造电磁环境的演进与标准化工作。具体而言，我们探讨了集成接入与回传（IAB）节点，它提供了比光纤回传更具成本效益且灵活的替代方案。我们还讨论了网络控制中继器（NCR）以及能够主动适应无线环境的可重构智能表面（RIS）的出现。本文概述了5G的相关特性，以及3GPP Release 18中与这些智能电磁实体相关的持续研发进展，并展望了未来无线网络在架构、操作和控制信号方面的预期演进。