China Completes First Phase of 6G Technology Trials, Sets Main Technical Directions
Beijing, November 13, 2025 — China has successfully completed the first phase of its sixth-generation (6G) mobile technology trials, marking a major milestone in the country’s quest to lead next-generation digital communications. According to a report by CCTV citing the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), this key technology trial phase has yielded over 300 significant advances across critical technical domains.
The first phase of 6G trials involved defining the primary technical directions of the upcoming network standard. Conducted over four consecutive years, these trials form part of a comprehensive research and development initiative aimed at establishing China’s position at the forefront of 6G innovation.
6G Expected to Revolutionize Digital Infrastructure
6G is anticipated to become the most important next-generation digital information network infrastructure globally over the coming decade. The technology will integrate breakthroughs in communications, sensing, computing, and artificial intelligence, enabling new dimensions of intelligence and connectivity.
CCTV’s report outlined that 6G technology will extend the scope of digital services well beyond current capabilities. Future 6G networks are expected to provide seamless, intelligent interconnection among people, machines, goods, and even autonomous intelligent agents. Coverage will also transcend traditional ground-based networks, evolving into an integrated space-air-ground network architecture capable of supporting complex scenarios like digital twins and comprehensive smart environments.
“As we advance, we will intensify research on core technologies and integrated technical solutions,” stated Zhang Yunming, Vice Minister of Industry and Information Technology. “Our focus will remain on advancing the full spectrum of research and development, standard-setting, testing, and application cultivation to lay a solid foundation for 6G standardization and industrialization.”
Three-Phase Approach to 6G Development
China’s 6G trial program is structured into three distinct phases. The recently completed first phase centered on exploring and defining crucial technology directions. The forthcoming second phase will focus on technical solution trials aimed at developing functional 6G prototypes tailored for typical scenarios and performance benchmarks. The final stage will involve system networking trials, encompassing the creation and testing of pre-commercial 6G equipment and key products to pave the way for industrial rollout.
Strategic Priorities and National Development Plans
Earlier this year in April, the MIIT emphasized accelerating the full lifecycle of 6G development—from research and standard formulation to pilot testing and industrial application. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to breakthrough innovations in integrated technologies such as communication, sensing, intelligence, and computing. Alongside technological advancements, efforts will also include nurturing a robust application ecosystem to support 6G commercialization.
6G development has been prioritized in China’s 15th Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social Development (2026-2030), signifying its strategic importance to the country’s future economic growth and technological competitiveness. Official recommendations stress the need to explore diverse technology pathways, typical application scenarios, business models, and regulatory frameworks for the burgeoning 6G industry.
The government also envisions 6G as a driver alongside emerging technologies such as quantum computing, biomanufacturing, hydrogen and nuclear fusion energy, brain-computer interfaces, and embodied artificial intelligence. These technologies collectively represent new pillars for China’s innovation-driven development strategy.
Global Context and Calls for Cooperation
The recent Global 6G Conference held in Nanjing highlighted China’s pivotal role in shaping next-generation communications and underscored the importance of international collaboration to realize the full potential of 6G technologies. As China forges ahead with its 6G roadmap, the world watches closely, anticipating new standards and innovations that could redefine the global digital landscape.
China’s accomplishment in completing the first phase of 6G trials signifies a critical step forward in the emerging era of ultra-intelligent, all-encompassing digital connectivity. With its strategic framework firmly in place, the nation aims to lead global conversations and development efforts toward widespread 6G adoption by the end of this decade.
