Experts Predict 6G Will Launch Commercially by 2030

Sixth-generation wireless technology is projected to become commercially available around 2030, with related standards expected to be established by then, according to a leading researcher in China’s mobile communication sector.

Under the coordination of the International Telecommunication Union, the global telecom industry has reached a consensus on the development trends, application scenarios, and key requirements for 6G technology. Standards for the new generation of wireless tech are anticipated to be released in 2030, stated a top expert at an event hosted by the Shanghai Stock Exchange yesterday.

“Compared to 5G, 6G introduces three major application domains: sensing-communication integration, artificial intelligence-communication integration, and space-air-ground connectivity,” explained Tong En, a senior researcher at a major Chinese telecom group, during the event.

He added that 6G will deeply fuse communication, sensing, computing, and AI capabilities, achieving widespread coverage across terrestrial, aerial, and space domains. It will enable the flexible deployment of software functions related to communication, sensing, computing, and intelligence on a single physical infrastructure, thereby transforming the network into a versatile platform capable of aggregating various services and capabilities.

The new technology is expected to vastly improve traditional communication metrics, such as data transfer speeds, latency, and device connectivity. Additionally, it will expand the scope of network services, allowing for tailored and personalized options for users.

China has already established a leading position globally in 5G standards, products, network deployment, and applications. However, to maintain its edge in 6G development, the country must address several challenges spanning applications, technology, standards, industry collaboration, and infrastructure deployment.

Research and development efforts on 6G standards in China began in 2018. The first official 6G project was launched in September 2024, marking a shift from research to standard setting and industrial development.