China is accelerating its next-generation telecom ambitions, with 5G-Advanced (5G-A) services now available in more than 330 cities. The large-scale rollout is expected to lay the foundation for future AI-native 6G networks, according to recent industry reports.

Data from the GSMA’s Mobile Economy China 2026 report shows that China surpassed 10 million 5G-Advanced users by mid-2025. The country’s major telecom operators, including China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom, have already launched commercial 5G-A services across multiple regions.

One of the most notable developments comes from China Telecom Shanghai, which introduced what is described as China’s first commercial 5G-Advanced AI-powered uplink network. The network delivers peak upload speeds of up to 1 Gbps and is designed to support AI applications, cloud services, smart devices, connected vehicles, drones, and industrial automation.

Industry experts say 5G-Advanced is more than just faster mobile internet. The technology introduces AI-driven network optimization, improved energy efficiency, lower latency, and better support for emerging technologies such as extended reality (XR), smart factories, robotics, and autonomous transportation.

Looking ahead, China is investing heavily in 6G research and development. Telecom leaders believe future 6G networks will combine connectivity, computing power, AI intelligence, and real-time decision-making into a single integrated platform.

China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has also confirmed ongoing work on 6G standards, infrastructure, and industrial ecosystems as the country continues to strengthen its position in next-generation wireless technology.

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