The field of reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) and 6G networks is rapidly advancing, with a focus on improving spectral efficiency, reducing hardware complexity, and enhancing overall network performance. Recent developments have explored the use of learning-based architecture discovery, spatial-to-spectral harmonic-modulated arrays, and novel observation matrix design schemes to optimize RIS performance. Additionally, researchers have investigated the application of RIS in various scenarios, including self-sustainable device-to-device communication, multibeam low Earth orbit satellite networks, and wireless body area networks. Noteworthy papers in this area include: Beyond-Diagonal RIS Under Non-Idealities, which proposes a learning-based two-tier architecture discovery framework to optimize non-ideal BD-RIS performance. Spatial-to-Spectral Harmonic-Modulated Arrays for 6G Multi-Beam MIMO, which introduces a novel SHA architecture that provides three spatial-to-spectral degrees of freedom with minimal hardware replication.