China has taken a significant step forward in the global race to develop 6G networks. The country’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has approved trials in the 6GHz band for 6G technology across certain regions.
The approval comes through IMT-2030 (6G), the government’s main coordinator for 6G development, which authorized field trials for 6GHz spectrum. MIIT explained the move aims to advance technical research, testing and validation based on key scenarios and performance indicators defined by the ITU for 6G.
This development matters because it puts China ahead in the practical testing phase of 6G technology, even as other major markets struggle with spectrum allocation decisions. The move will accelerate China’s push around 6G research and development, standardization, and industrialization efforts, MIIT added.
China first allocated the use of 6GHz for 5G and 6G services in 2023, which was a world first at the time. However, it had held back on approving actual trials until now. This cautious approach appears designed to ensure the trials are conducted under proper regulatory oversight while advancing the country’s 6G ambitions.
The global picture for 6GHz spectrum allocation remains fragmented and contentious. The situation differs significantly between major markets:
- The US opened up the band for Wi-Fi use in 2020
- Europe is yet to decide on how to allocate the spectrum
- China is now moving forward with mobile network trials
This fragmented approach has created challenges for the global telecommunications industry. Operators in Europe have called on regulators to make the entire upper 6GHz band available for mobile services, arguing the move is necessary to ensure the region doesn’t fall behind others in 6G development. However, Wi-Fi industry players are also seeking access to the same spectrum, creating a regulatory dilemma.
The 6GHz band is particularly valuable for next-generation networks because it offers the ideal characteristics for many 6G use cases. As a mid-band spectrum, 6GHz is considered perfect for some of the applications the ITU has identified for 6G, including:
- Mass AI deployment
- Holographic communications
- Autonomous transport systems
China’s move to begin practical trials puts pressure on other major markets to resolve their own spectrum allocation challenges. The country’s early allocation decision in 2023, followed by these approved trials, suggests a coordinated strategy to maintain technological leadership in next-generation mobile networks. This could have significant implications for global 6G standards and deployment timelines as the technology moves closer to commercial reality.