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不论地点与时间，都能在吞吐量和可靠性方面提供最优用户体验。为实现此目标，传统固定宏基站部署正被更创新灵活的解决方案所取代，例如无线回传与中继。本文聚焦于这些正在塑造电磁环境的演进与标准化进程。具体而言，我们探究了集成接入与回传（IAB）节点——其为光纤回传提供了一种经济高效且灵活的替代方案；同时讨论了网络控制中继器（NCR）以及主动适应无线环境的可重构智能表面（RIS）的兴起。本文概述了5G特性及3GPP第18版中与这些智能电磁实体相关的持续发展，并展望了未来无线网络在架构、操作及控制信号方面的演进方向。