Abstract: Anytime-wireless-everywhere (AWE) aspirations for Internet-of-Things (IoT) applications to be enabled through current 5G and evolving 6G and beyond ecosystems necessitate the development of innovative electrically small antennas (ESAs). While a variety of ESA systems are reviewed, those realized from the near-field resonant parasitic (NFRP) antenna paradigm are emphasized. Efficiency, bandwidth and directivity issues are highlighted. Multifunctional, reconfigurable, passive and active systems that have been achieved are discussed and illustrated; their performance characteristics and advantages described. This overview finalizes by going back to the future and considers enterprising research areas of current and forward-looking interest.
