China put into operation the first Pré-6G test network on Tuesday, April 21, in the city of Nanquim, capital of Jiangsu province in the east of the country. The system integrates 6G technologies into the existing 5G infrastructure. Ele offers high bandwidth, long-range coverage, deterministic low latency, and native artificial intelligence integration. Overall capabilities can reach levels up to ten times higher than those of current 5G, according to released information. The initiative took place during the Global 6G Conference 2026 event.
The advance represents a concrete stage in the evolution of technology. Ele allows you to move from isolated component validations to full system level checks. The network already supports testing in specific usage scenarios.
Rede Pré-6G integrates innovations into existing 5G
The new test network combines 6G elements with the 5G base stations and backbone already deployed on a large scale at China. Isso creates a bridge between the current and future generations. Técnicos report significant gains in performance without the need for complete infrastructure replacement.
The operation began at Nanquim, a hub known for research in advanced communications. The site houses laboratories dedicated to the development of next-generation technologies. Choosing the city facilitates data collection in a controlled and real environment at the same time.
- Alta bandwidth for transmitting large volumes of data
- Cobertura extended for hard-to-reach areas
- Baixa deterministic latency in critical applications
- AI native Integração for automatic resource optimization
Esses attributes appear as central in early reports about the system.
Initial Testes targets strategic sectors
The Pré-6G is already being used in inspections carried out at low altitude. Ele also supports industrial manufacturing with more reliable connections. Outros fields include embedded intelligence in devices and holographic communications that require high precision.
Essas applications appear as a priority at the current time. Elas allows you to evaluate network behavior under varied operating conditions. Test results should inform adjustments before larger expansions. A longer paragraph helps contextualize relevance. China maintains the largest 5G network on the planet, with 4.958 million base stations registered as of the end of March. Essa robust base serves as the foundation for the gradual evolution towards 6G. 5G-A, an advanced version of 5G, already covers 330 cities and drives innovations in artificial intelligence and industrial internet.
The progressive transition avoids abrupt jumps. Ela takes advantage of the billion-dollar investment already made in towers, fibers and equipment. Analistas industry experts note that the Pré-6G accelerates the maturation of emerging standards.
Analistas highlight role in national planning
Ma Jihua, veteran market analyst, commented on the significance of the initiative. Ele pointed out that the Pré-6G allows you to test and apply certain 6G standards in a practical way. The measure meets the growing demand for more advanced communications in areas such as new materials, new energies, low-altitude economics and the aerospace industry.
The expert related the step to the 15th Plano Quinquenal, which runs from 2026 to 2030. The document prioritizes technological research, product development and construction of complete ecosystems. The focus includes robotics and artificial intelligence as emerging applications that can benefit from new infrastructure.
China has built a leadership position in patents and 5G deployment over the years. Historical Esse creates favorable conditions to influence the definition of global 6G standards. The country continues to expand the coverage and quality of current services while preparing the next cycle.
Ministério reinforces continuous development strategy
Xie Cun, head of the information and communications development department of Ministério of Indústria and Tecnologia of Informação, participated in a press conference this Tuesday. Ele updated numbers on 5G expansion in the first quarter. The executive reinforced his commitment to the orderly evolution of the networks.
The plan involves deepening the coverage of 5G and gigabit optical networks. Ele also predicts acceleration in the large-scale commercial use of 5G-A. Pilotos ten-gigabit optical networks are already in place in 168 communities, factories and industrial parks across 86 cities.
Esses efforts form a gradual path. Eles prepare the ground for 6G without disrupting services that already benefit industry, mining, energy and healthcare. The integration of AI into networks is gaining ground as a dominant trend.
What changes in practice for future applications
The test network in Nanquim allows experiments with scenarios that require higher performance. One example is wireless control in complex production lines. Outro involves aerial surveillance systems that need stable real-time transmission.
Holographic Comunicações represent a promising field. Elas require very low latency and high bandwidth to recreate quality three-dimensional images. Embedded machine intelligence also benefits from distributed processing capabilities.
The current stage is still experimental. Ele serves to validate the joint functioning of several innovative technologies. Positive Resultados could accelerate the international standardization timeline.
China continues to invest in research and infrastructure to maintain the pace of innovation. The Pré-6G appears as another milestone in this trajectory. Ele brings 6G closer to concrete day-to-day applications in strategic sectors.
