China Mobile expert states that 6G will empower AI and transform society
While the pursuit of faster communication is a key element in the development of 6G, it is not the most vital factor. What truly matters is the introduction of new dimensions in network capabilities, said Liu Guangyi, chief expert of China...
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While the pursuit of faster communication is a key element in the development of 6G, it is not the most vital factor. What truly matters is the introduction of new dimensions in network capabilities, said Liu Guangyi, chief expert of China Mobile, during an interview with CN at the Global 6G Conference 2025 on Thursday.
"When we first designed 5G about a decade ago, we didn't anticipate the explosive rise of artificial intelligence," Liu explained. "The focus then was mainly on improving communication speed and efficiency. But in doing so, we overlooked the potential of integrating other capabilities."
Liu emphasized that as society progresses toward increased digitalization and intelligence, future intelligent applications will become commonplace. Supporting this evolution requires innovative network capabilities.
"Think about robotics, intelligent connected vehicles, and intelligent hardware," he said. "6G networks can help make these technologies more lightweight, compact, and low-cost, making mass adoption more feasible and accelerating the intelligent transformation of society."
In comparison to 5G, 6G will also improve the network's intelligence in its operations and maintenance, resulting in reduced operational costs for telecom providers.
"Network upkeep currently relies heavily on human labor. But what if, in the future, the network could manage itself like a robot? That would significantly cut operating expenses," Liu noted.
He believes that by enhancing AI, 6G will gradually transform everyday life.
"For example, my wife is a university professor, and I've told her that education is among the fields most likely to be 'disrupted' by AI. With the help of 6G, XR glasses, and AI, we could build immersive metaverse learning environments that offer personalized education."
Liu even speculated on more radical possibilities: "If 6G could one day connect with brain-computer interfaces, we might upload knowledge directly to the brain, drastically shortening learning cycles. Maybe someday, a person could earn a PhD by age eight and enter the workforce early."
He views both AI and 6G as enablers—tools and infrastructure that should work in tandem to foster the growth of other industries.
Looking ahead, Liu expressed confidence in China's progress in 6G development as the nation 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 learned – form a solid foundation for our 6G journey," he stated.
The Global 6G Conference 2025 is set to take place from April 10 to 12 in Nanjing, located in east China's Jiangsu Province. Centered around the theme "Frontier Innovation Driving 6G Development," the event will focus on achieving a global consensus on the 6G vision and standardization.
Alejandro Jose Martinez for TROIB News
"When we first designed 5G about a decade ago, we didn't anticipate the explosive rise of artificial intelligence," Liu explained. "The focus then was mainly on improving communication speed and efficiency. But in doing so, we overlooked the potential of integrating other capabilities."
Liu emphasized that as society progresses toward increased digitalization and intelligence, future intelligent applications will become commonplace. Supporting this evolution requires innovative network capabilities.
"Think about robotics, intelligent connected vehicles, and intelligent hardware," he said. "6G networks can help make these technologies more lightweight, compact, and low-cost, making mass adoption more feasible and accelerating the intelligent transformation of society."
In comparison to 5G, 6G will also improve the network's intelligence in its operations and maintenance, resulting in reduced operational costs for telecom providers.
"Network upkeep currently relies heavily on human labor. But what if, in the future, the network could manage itself like a robot? That would significantly cut operating expenses," Liu noted.
He believes that by enhancing AI, 6G will gradually transform everyday life.
"For example, my wife is a university professor, and I've told her that education is among the fields most likely to be 'disrupted' by AI. With the help of 6G, XR glasses, and AI, we could build immersive metaverse learning environments that offer personalized education."
Liu even speculated on more radical possibilities: "If 6G could one day connect with brain-computer interfaces, we might upload knowledge directly to the brain, drastically shortening learning cycles. Maybe someday, a person could earn a PhD by age eight and enter the workforce early."
He views both AI and 6G as enablers—tools and infrastructure that should work in tandem to foster the growth of other industries.
Looking ahead, Liu expressed confidence in China's progress in 6G development as the nation 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 learned – form a solid foundation for our 6G journey," he stated.
The Global 6G Conference 2025 is set to take place from April 10 to 12 in Nanjing, located in east China's Jiangsu Province. Centered around the theme "Frontier Innovation Driving 6G Development," the event will focus on achieving a global consensus on the 6G vision and standardization.
Alejandro Jose Martinez for TROIB News
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