China’s state-owned telecommunications operator, China Mobile, recently announced the launch of the world’s first 6G satellite, symbolizing China’s progress in the emerging communications technology field. According to a report from IoT World, two experimental satellites were launched into low earth orbit (LEO). One of the satellites is equipped with a 6G architecture jointly developed by China Mobile and the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Microsatellite Innovation Academy. The other uses China Mobile’s 5G technology.
These LEO satellites, which orbit about 310 miles above Earth, have garnered attention because they can offer lower latency and faster data transmission speeds compared to higher-orbit satellites, allowing for greater adaptability of orbital paths and faster internet access in remote locations.
What is the purpose of 6G testing?
China Mobile plans to conduct in-orbit experiments with these test satellites and use the results to strengthen its space-to-ground technological development.
China wants to commercialize 6G by 2030
According to a white paper released by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in December last year, China aims to commercialize 6G technology by 2030.
ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin reportedly emphasized the importance of mobile communications in meaningfully connecting everyone. According to a report by IoT World, she said that the agreement by ITU member states on the future direction of 6G is a crucial step towards ensuring that technological advances are matched with affordability, security and resilience, thereby supporting sustainable development and digital transformation globally.
The ITU predicts that 6G will enable “immersive” communications, offering customers superior quality video communications capabilities, and helping to bridge the digital divide by enabling widespread connectivity in rural and sparsely populated areas.
