TECH – China has officially launched the world’s first 10-gigabit (10G) internet network, marking a significant milestone in global digital infrastructure. This groundbreaking development was reported by CNBC Indonesia on May 30, 2025, highlighting China’s commitment to advancing its technological capabilities.
The 10G network, developed through a collaboration between Huawei and China Unicom, utilizes 50G Passive Optical Network (PON) technology. This infrastructure enables download speeds of up to 9,834 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 1,008 Mbps, significantly surpassing the current global standard of 1 Gbps. Such speeds allow for the download of a 20GB 4K movie in under 20 seconds, a task that would typically take 7-10 minutes on conventional networks.
Beyond speed, the network boasts ultra-low latency of approximately 3 milliseconds, ensuring a more responsive and stable internet experience. This advancement lays the foundation for a comprehensive digital transformation, facilitating the development of advanced applications such as cloud computing, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), 8K video streaming, and the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices in smart homes.
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The implementation of the 10G network is part of China’s broader strategy to enhance its digital infrastructure. The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has announced plans to launch pilot projects for 10-gigabit optical networks, including trials for establishing “10-gigabit communities.” These initiatives aim to drive the upgrade of networks toward ultra-high speed, large capacity, and intelligent capabilities, supporting the advancement of new industrialization.
Shanghai is at the forefront of this transformation, with plans to become the world’s first “10 Gigabit All-Optical City” by 2026. Led by China Telecom Shanghai and leveraging F5.5G innovations, the city aims to provide comprehensive coverage of ultra-fast internet speeds, ten times faster than current gigabit networks. This initiative is expected to revolutionize various sectors, including smart manufacturing, AI quality inspection, and smart transportation management.
The launch of the 10G network underscores China’s position as a global leader in digital innovation. By pioneering such advanced infrastructure, China is setting new standards for internet connectivity, with potential implications for global digital economies and the future of internet technology.
