The network, launched in the capital of Jiangsu Province, integrates early 6G technologies into existing 5G systems and is designed to support high bandwidth, long-distance coverage, low latency and built-in artificial intelligence functions.

According to reports, the system is said to deliver performance capabilities up to 10 times higher than current 5G networks.

The test platform is being used to validate applications in areas such as industrial manufacturing, low-altitude inspection, robotics-based intelligence and holographic communications.

Officials say it represents a shift from laboratory testing to system-level verification ahead of future 6G standardisation.

Industry analyst Ma Jihua said the Pre-6G phase involves embedding early 6G features into the current 5G infrastructure, helping test real-world applications while improving existing network performance.

He added that sectors such as energy, materials, aerospace and the low-altitude economy are expected to drive demand for advanced communication systems during China’s upcoming five-year development plan period.

China already operates the world’s largest 5G network, with nearly 5 million base stations nationwide and coverage in more than 300 cities for advanced 5G-A services.

Officials from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology said the expansion of 5G and related technologies has supported growth in industries such as artificial intelligence and the industrial internet, laying the groundwork for future 6G development.

The government has also identified 6G research and ecosystem development as a priority under its next five-year plan, with expectations that emerging technologies such as robotics and AI will accelerate demand for next-generation networks.