China Mobile Expert: 6G Will Empower AI and Transform Our World
The next generation of mobile networks isn’t just about faster speeds. According to Liu Guangyi, chief expert at China Mobile, 6G technology will introduce new dimensions of network capabilities that will empower artificial intelligence (AI) and revolutionize society.
Speaking at the Global 6G Conference 2025, Liu explained that while faster communication is essential, the true potential of 6G lies in its ability to support innovative applications and intelligent transformations.
Beyond Speed: Enabling Intelligent Applications
“When we first designed 5G about a decade ago, we didn’t anticipate the explosive rise of AI,” Liu said. “Our focus was mainly on improving communication speed and efficiency. But now, as we move toward a more digital and intelligent society, we need networks that can support ubiquitous intelligent applications.”
Liu emphasized that technologies like robotics, intelligent connected vehicles, and smart devices will benefit from 6G networks. “6G can help make these technologies more lightweight, compact, and affordable, leading to mass adoption and accelerating the intelligent transformation of society,” he noted.
Self-Managing Networks and Operational Efficiency
Another key advantage of 6G is the enhancement of the network’s own intelligence in operations and maintenance. “Currently, network upkeep relies heavily on human labor. Imagine if, in the future, the network could manage itself like a robot. This would significantly reduce operating expenses for telecom providers,” Liu explained.
Reshaping Everyday Life
Liu believes that by empowering AI, 6G will gradually reshape everyday life. He shared an example from education: “With the help of 6G, extended reality (XR) glasses, and AI, we could create immersive metaverse learning environments that offer personalized education.”
He even speculated on more revolutionary possibilities: “If 6G could one day connect with brain-computer interfaces, we might be able to upload knowledge directly to the brain, drastically shortening learning cycles. Maybe someday, someone could earn a PhD by age eight and start contributing to society early.”
Building the Future Together
Liu sees both AI and 6G as enablers—tools and infrastructure that should integrate with and promote the development of other industries. Looking ahead, he expressed confidence in China’s 6G development as the country aims to commercialize 6G around 2030.
“Based on our experience with 5G, Chinese operators are currently leading the world. We have advantages in deployment scale and construction capacity. Our successes—and the lessons we’ve learned—form a solid foundation for our 6G journey,” he stated.
Global 6G Conference 2025
The Global 6G Conference 2025 is being held from April 10 to 12 in Nanjing, in east China’s Jiangsu Province. With “Frontier Innovation Driving 6G Development” as its core theme, the event focuses on the global 6G vision consensus and standardization, bringing together experts and industry leaders to shape the future of connectivity.
