China approves 6G trials to accelerate next-gen connectivity

China has taken a key step toward shaping the global future of telecommunications, as the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology officially approved the use of test frequencies for sixth-generation (6G) mobile communication systems.

The MIIT said on Friday that it has issued a trial frequency usage permit for the 6GHz band to the IMT-2030 (6G) Promotion Group, enabling technical trials in selected regions across the country. The approval is aimed at advancing China's research, standardization, and industrial deployment of 6G technology.

The trials will focus on the typical application scenarios and key performance indicators defined by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) for 6G, including ultra-high data rates, extreme low latency, massive connectivity, and integrated sensing and communication capabilities. Developers will conduct R&D and verification testing to tackle core technological challenges during this phase.

"The approval of these test frequencies will strongly promote the high-quality development of 6G in China," the MIIT said in a statement.

China has been actively driving 6G research through the IMT-2030 Promotion Group, a flagship industry platform comprising leading telecom operators, equipment makers, academia and research institutes. The new trial licenses mark a significant milestone following China's earlier rollout of 5G and ongoing 5G-Advanced deployment.