Jakarta, INTI – China reaffirmed its ambition to lead next-generation technology when it showcased major 6G trial results in June 2025 across several sites, including Nanjing. The trials were conducted to address industry demands for ultra-fast connectivity and real-time threat response. During an emergency simulation, the 6G network detected an illegal drone in just 0.1 seconds. Led by Purple Mountain Laboratories (PMLabs), the project demonstrates a new direction in 6G development. It also strengthens China’s readiness to enter an era of intelligent, future-focused communications.
6G Trials Demonstrate Tenfold Performance Boost Over 5G
PMLabs developed a cell-free 6G testing field that delivers ten times the range, capacity, and spectral efficiency of 5G technology. In a simulated storage-tank fire incident last June, the network successfully coordinated a group of drones to carry out monitoring and search operations. The trial showed that 6G offers not only enhanced communication speed but also expanded sensing capabilities and collaborative device control.
6G Positioned as China’s New Industrial Growth Engine
Over the next five years, China aims to drive large-scale transformation in next-generation industries, with 6G mobile communication as one of its economic pillars. As a leading research institution, PMLabs is beginning to carve out a niche in drone systems and robotics. In the northern innovation zone of Beijing, a 6G-powered robot training center is already operating to explore how high-speed networks can empower future intelligent machines.
Future Applications: Remote Surgery to High-Precision Navigation
China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology revealed that the country has conducted four consecutive years of 6G trials, producing more than 300 significant technical achievements. The technology is projected to support complex remote surgeries, centimeter-level indoor navigation, advanced autonomous driving, and massive-scale intelligent device connectivity.
Integrated Ground-to-Space 6G Network Takes Shape
In a recent trial, China Telecom and Tsinghua University used a satellite orbiting 20,000 km above Earth to verify connectivity in polar regions and open seas. The satellite achieved a peak downlink speed of 140 Mbps and will form part of the Smart SkyNet system, which integrates medium-orbit and low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellites to build a unified ground-to-space 6G network. To date, China has launched 13 satellite clusters and deployed a dedicated 6G architecture verification satellite as part of this ecosystem.
Breakthroughs Strengthen China’s Position in Global Standards
Chinese researchers also developed an AI-powered ultra-broadband optoelectronic chip capable of operating across the 0.5–115 GHz frequency range, accelerating data transmission and improving 6G reliability. The breakthrough, published in Nature, reinforces China’s technological influence. As of June 2025, China holds 40.3 percent of global 6G patents the highest in the world. Through the IMT-2030 Promotion Group, the country has also officially allocated the 6 GHz spectrum for 5G and 6G implementation.
Conclusion
China is taking comprehensive steps to build a strong 6G foundation from laboratory research and satellite testing to global patent leadership. Backed by coordinated efforts from government bodies, industries, and research institutions, the country is positioning itself at the forefront of global 6G innovation and accelerating its path toward commercial deployment by 2030.
Read More: Strengthening National Network Infrastructure to Support the Digital Economy