China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has announced a significant push towards the evolution of 5G-A (5G-Advanced) technology and the research and development of 6G. In a bid to enhance connectivity, MIIT is also deploying next-generation optical networks ahead of schedule.
5G-A represents a crucial stage in the transition from 5G to 6G, promising a tenfold increase in network capacity compared to traditional 5G. This advancement offers higher speeds, greater connectivity, and lower latency, positioning China at the forefront of technological innovation.
The ministry plans to steadily expand the coverage of 5G and gigabit optical networks to a broader range of venues, including cultural and tourist sites, medical institutions, universities, transportation hubs, and subway systems. Additionally, MIIT will introduce policies to accelerate the development and application of \"dual-gigabit\" internet—combining 5G networks with gigabit optical networks—and promote the integration of 5G technology with various industries. This includes rapid construction of 5G-enabled factories and the development of an upgraded version of 5G plus industrial internet.
\"We will coordinate efforts to promote the evolution of 5G-A technology, and the research, development and innovation of 6G while deploying the ultra-high-speed optical fiber transmission technology and next-generation optical networks in advance,\" said Zhao Zhiguo, MIIT's chief engineer, at a press conference in Beijing on Friday.
MIIT data reveals that 5G applications have already been integrated into 74 out of 97 key economic categories in China. There are 30,000 virtual private networks within the 5G industry, 300 5G factories have been established, and over 13,000 5G+ industrial internet projects have been launched.
Reference(s):
China to deploy next-generation optical networks in advance: MIIT
cgtn.com
