Surpassing Targets with Unprecedented Speed
China has remarkably exceeded its own ambitious goals for 5G infrastructure development, achieving nearly 3 million 5G base stations by the end of June, as reported by the South China Morning Post. This feat, accomplished six months ahead of the planned schedule, highlights China’s rapid pace in expanding its 5G network.
A Surge in 5G Base Stations
In just the April-June quarter, Chinese operators deployed around 600,000 5G base stations, significantly boosting the country’s 5G capabilities. Zhao Zhiguo, the chief engineer at the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), stated that these stations now blanket all urban areas of prefecture-level and county-level cities, with ongoing efforts to deepen and broaden coverage.
Diverse Applications of 5G
China is not just expanding its 5G network; it’s also exploring its application across various sectors. The Global Times reported that 5G technology is being integrated into industries like manufacturing, mining, and port operations. Over 3,000 companies are expected to establish 5G-integrated factories in 2023. Zhao emphasized the technology’s expansion into vital sectors including healthcare, education, and transportation.
Rural Reach and Cost-Effective Solutions
The authorities are committed to extending 5G coverage into rural areas while working on the development of 5G RedCap, aimed at reducing costs and scaling up applications. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to make 5G technology more accessible and beneficial across different segments of society.
The Next Frontier: 6G Research and Development
China is not resting on its laurels with 5G. The government is actively pushing for advancements in 6G technology, focusing on research and development, technological testing, and international cooperation. This forward-thinking approach aims to keep China at the forefront of the next wave of mobile technology innovation.
A Surge in 5G Smartphone Users
The number of 5G smartphone users in China reached a staggering 676 million by June’s end. Furthermore, the total number of connected Internet of Things (IoT) devices has hit 2.12 billion, according to MIIT data. Predictions by the GSMA suggest that China will have 1 billion 5G subscribers by 2025, with the number expected to soar to 1.6 billion by 2030.
Economic Impact of 5G
5G technology is not just a technological marvel; it’s a significant economic driver. In 2022, mobile technologies and services contributed to 5.5% of China’s GDP, translating to $1.1 trillion in economic value. By 2030, 5G is expected to add $290 billion to the Chinese economy, spreading its benefits across various industries.
The Phasing Out of Legacy Networks
As 5G rapidly becomes the dominant mobile technology, surpassing 4G in 2024, China is gradually phasing out its legacy networks. While these older networks currently support various IoT services, projections indicate they could be almost entirely shut down by 2025, making way for a new era of connectivity.
China’s strides in 5G and its ambitious plans for 6G signify a transformative period in telecommunications, with implications that stretch far beyond mere connectivity. The country’s aggressive push in expanding and utilizing 5G technology sets a global benchmark and paves the way for a more interconnected and technologically advanced future.