China Leading 6G Technology Development Efforts

Chinese officials and scholars are determined to advance the development and commercialization of 6G technology, building upon the nation's robust telecommunications achievements. At the 6G Innovation Development Forum within the 2024 Zhongguancun Forum in Beijing, multiple research institutes unveiled a significant super-large MIMO prototype verification system for the 6G wireless network, laying a solid technical groundwork for future 6G applications. Huang Yuhong, executive vice president of Zhongguancun Pan Connected Mobile Communication Technology Innovation and Application Research Institute, projected that 6G technology is poised for commercial operation by 2030. She highlighted that 6G will enhance the low latency and connection stability of the existing 5G network, significantly boosting data transmission speeds and expanding the number of connected terminals.

China has already established 3.65 million 5G base stations nationwide by the end of the first quarter of 2024, solidifying its position as the world's largest and most advanced network infrastructure system. Chen Shanzhi, deputy general manager of China Information Communication Technologies Group Co, emphasized that China's successful progression from 3G to 5G has provided invaluable industrialization experience for telecommunications technologies. With a vast market, complete industrial chain, and extensive infrastructure, China is well-positioned for the development of 6G technology.

Looking ahead, China aims to focus on key technology R&D for 6G before conducting trial operations around 2029, leading to formal commercialization. Fang Lei from China's State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission (SASAC) announced plans to transform Beijing into a hub for original innovation in 6G technology. SASAC is committed to fostering breakthroughs in 6G research and development, setting standards, and integrating 5G with advanced industries like satellite networks, intelligent connected cars, and robotics to drive future 6G-related industries. Additionally, SASAC pledged to enhance international cooperation, establish globalized 6G development patterns, and contribute to the creation of international standards.