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Is this the end of the 5G network? Chinese take the lead in technology and are already starting tests of the first “Pre-6G” network this week – the technology is in the testing phase and promises to be a revolution in the sector.

Written by Hilton Libório
Published on 24/04/2026 at 22:56
Updated on 24/04/2026 at 22:57
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Chinese advance with new technology by testing the first “Pre-6G” network, promising faster, smarter, and revolutionary connections.

The evolution of telecommunications has entered a new phase. Chinese researchers and companies have put the first “Pre-6G” network into operation in China, taking a significant step towards the future of global connectivity. The initiative was officially launched in Nanjing, capital of Jiangsu province, in the east of the country, as reported by CCTV News this Tuesday (21).

This new technology does not immediately replace 5G, but it represents an important evolution. It integrates 6G concepts into the current infrastructure, expanding network capacity. In initial tests, the expectation is to achieve performance up to 10 times superior to 5G, with lower latency and native artificial intelligence integration. The advancement reinforces China’s leading role and shows that the Chinese continue to invest strategically in innovation.

Chinese accelerate new technology with the first “Pre-6G” network in operation in China

The start of testing for the first “Pre-6G” network marks a significant shift in how the evolution of mobile networks is being conducted. The Chinese opted to test the new technology in a real environment, which allows for early validation of practical applications.

In practice, this means that China is not just researching 6G, but is already experimenting with how it can function in daily life. This approach reduces uncertainties and accelerates technological development.

Among the main objectives of this phase are:

  • Test technical standards that may be used in 6G
  • Integrate new functionalities into existing infrastructure
  • Evaluate performance in real-world scenarios
  • Prepare industrial and commercial applications

This strategy places the Chinese in a prominent position in the global race for advanced connectivity.

Understand how the first “Pre-6G” network works and the role of the Chinese in this new technology

The first “Pre-6G” network functions as an intermediate stage between advanced 5G (5G-A) and future 6G. Instead of creating a new network from scratch, the new technology leverages existing infrastructure to incorporate more advanced features.

Analyst Ma Jihua, in an assessment published by the Global Times, points out that this type of testing is essential for validating technical standards and future applications.

Among the main characteristics of this technological evolution are:

  • Deterministic latency, which improves communication predictability
  • Native artificial intelligence integration
  • High bandwidth
  • Ability to support applications such as holographic communication

This model shows how the Chinese are using the new technology to prepare the ground for 6G within China.

Practical tests reveal the potential of the new technology developed by the Chinese

Unlike previous phases, the first “Pre-6G” network is already being tested in concrete applications. This reinforces the practical nature of the new technology.

In China, tests include strategic sectors that demand high connectivity and low latency. Among them:

  • Low-altitude inspection with drones
  • Automated industrial processes
  • Systems with embedded intelligence
  • Advanced communication with holographic support

These scenarios show that network evolution is not limited to speed. It also involves efficiency, intelligence, and new possibilities for use.

China’s structural base drives the advancement of the first “Pre-6G” network

The advancement of the Chinese did not happen by chance. China has built, over the past few years, one of the largest telecommunications infrastructures in the world, which facilitates the implementation of the first “Pre-6G” network.

During a press conference, Xie Cun reported that, by the end of March, the country had approximately 4.958 million 5G base stations. Furthermore, advanced 5G is already present in approximately 330 cities.

This robust base allows the new technology to be tested on a large scale, with greater reliability and speed.

Among the sectors that already use this infrastructure are:

  • Industry
  • Mining
  • Energy
  • Healthcare

The integration between technology and productive sectors further strengthens China‘s digital ecosystem.

First “Pre-6G” network and new technology put Chinese in the dispute for global standards

The development of the first “Pre-6G” network also has a direct impact on the international scenario. The Chinese can gain an advantage in defining global 6G standards.

This happens because countries that lead the testing phase tend to influence future technical norms and guidelines. China, by investing in the new technology, increases its chances of leadership.

Among the possible impacts are:

  • Participation in defining international standards
  • Development of compatible equipment
  • Expansion of technological innovation
  • Strengthening of the digital economy

This movement shows that the dispute for 6G goes beyond technology and involves global strategy.

China’s strategy strengthens the advancement of new technology and the first “Pre-6G” network

The advancement of the first “Pre-6G” network is aligned with China‘s economic planning, especially the five-year plan scheduled for the period from 2026 to 2030.

According to Ma Jihua, the evolution of networks meets the growing demand of strategic sectors, such as:

  • New materials
  • New energies
  • Low-altitude economy
  • Aerospace sector

The new technology emerges as an essential element to sustain this growth. The Chinese are using connectivity as a basis to boost innovation and productivity.

What this movement indicates for the future of mobile networks and connectivity

The start of testing for the first “Pre-6G” network shows that the future of connectivity has already begun to be designed. Although 5G still has room for evolution, the new technology developed by the Chinese points to a new level.

With performance that can be up to 10 times superior to 5G, lower latency, and integration with artificial intelligence, the trend is towards smarter and more efficient networks. China is using its infrastructure and innovation capacity to advance rapidly in this scenario.

More than a technical evolution, this movement represents a gradual transformation in how people, companies, and governments will connect. The first “Pre-6G” network is still in the testing phase, but it already indicates that the next technological leap may arrive sooner than expected.

With information from Global Times

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Hilton Libório

Hilton Fonseca Liborio é redator, com experiência em produção de conteúdo digital e habilidade em SEO. Atua na criação de textos otimizados para diferentes públicos e plataformas, buscando unir qualidade, relevância e resultados. Especialista em Indústria Automotiva, Tecnologia, Carreiras, Energias Renováveis, Mineração e outros temas. Contato e sugestões de pauta: hiltonliborio44@gmail.com

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