China just launched the world’s largest 5G network
November 1, 2019
China just switched on the world’s largest 5G network.
The country’s three state-run telecom operators launched services for the next generation wireless technology on Friday.
China Mobile (CHL), China Telecom (CHA) and China Unicom (CHU) are all offering 5G plans that start at 128 yuan ($18) for 30 GB of data per month, giving Chinese internet users access to the ultra fast service.
5G commercial services are now available in 50 cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen, according to Chinese state news agency Xinhua. In Shanghai, nearly 12,000 5G base stations have been activated to support 5G coverage across the city’s key outdoor areas.
With the expected rollout of the super-fast 5G network in China in coming months, Huawei’s advantage is expected to grow further.
Huawei is in a strong position to consolidate its dominance further amid 5G network rollout, given its tight operator relationships in 5G network deployment, and control over key components such as local network compatible 5G chipsets.
Other countries including the United States and South Korea launched 5G services in select areas earlier this year. But China’s commercial network is the biggest, according to Bernstein Research, giving the county more influence over the technology’s global evolution. Analysts at Jefferies predict that China will have 110 million 5G users — about 7% of the country’s population — by 2020. South Korea launched its 5G network in April, and roughly 3% of the country’s internet users subscribe to it, according to Jefferies. Huawei’s role Huawei, the world’s largest telecommunications equipment maker and a leading smartphone brand, is playing a… Read more »