6 Minutes Read
In the world of telecommunications, few achievements have been as awe-inspiring as the monumental 5G rollout orchestrated by Chinese operators. Having spearheaded the globe’s most extensive 5G network deployment, they’ve now set their sights on revolutionizing the enterprise sector. In this blog post, we delve into the rapidly expanding domain of enterprise 5G in China, where innovation knows no bounds.
The Surge of Private 5G Networks
The numbers speak for themselves: Chinese operators have surged ahead by deploying a staggering 6,518 private 5G networks, a remarkable leap from just 1,655 a year ago. These statistics, recently compiled by the Communications World website, underscore the relentless pace at which enterprise 5G is evolving in China.
But what’s even more remarkable is where these networks are being implemented. They span a diverse range of sectors, including smart factories, mines, grids, ports, and hospitals, powering over 20,000 unique applications. Let’s dive into some of the remarkable highlights of China’s enterprise 5G journey:
CATL’s Gigantic 5G Network
CATL, the world’s largest lithium-ion battery manufacturer, boasts not only this title but also the honor of operating China’s, and potentially the world’s, most massive 5G private network. Covering a sprawling expanse of over 5 million square meters across six provinces, CATL’s network stands as a testament to the capabilities of 5G technology.
This pioneering network facilitates an array of cutting-edge applications. From centralized process control to AI-based video streaming quality inspection, big data real-time detection, and smart logistics, CATL’s 5G enterprise network represents a blueprint for industry-wide transformation. The company plans to replicate this success in its factories worldwide.
Redefining Healthcare with 5G
In the tropical province of Hainan, China has constructed a 5G smart healthcare network that has expanded the reach and efficiency of medical care. By deploying telemedicine equipment in city and county hospitals, township health centers, and village clinics, this network supports remote and AI-assisted consultations and diagnoses.
The results are impressive: a 40% reduction in average patient waiting times and a 30% boost in medical treatment efficiency. This innovative application of 5G technology is fundamentally transforming healthcare accessibility and quality.
Bridging Culture and Technology
In partnership with cultural exchange firm DTXS Silk Road, China has harnessed the power of 5G, XR, blockchain, and the cloud to create a digital exhibition and trading platform for artworks and cultural assets in China’s northwest. This region, home to the ancient capital of Xi’an, has seen the digitization of 1,200 cultural relics, the establishment of a digital cultural park, and the creation of a metaverse museum.
By providing a secure platform for digital asset exhibition and trading, these technologies have opened new horizons for preserving and sharing cultural heritage.
Agricultural Advancements with 5G
China Telecom has embarked on a mission to enhance agriculture’s efficiency and productivity through the application of 5G technology. In a reference project, AI analysis guides rice planting while smart machinery replaces manual labor, resulting in a remarkable 5%-20% increase in rice production. The benefits don’t stop there; these technologies are also being applied to other smart agricultural projects across China, including sheep and hog farms and citrus production.
Automated Ports and Logistics
China has revolutionized port operations by automating Tianjin Port, one of the world’s largest. Their 5G private network has enabled intelligent unmanned services, including remote crane operation and the world’s first “one-click container loading.” Since its deployment in 2019, the port has experienced a 20% improvement in overall efficiency, a 10% reduction in operating costs, and a 20% decrease in energy consumption per container.
In Kunming, China is building a 5G network for the Tengjun inland port smart logistics park, with the expectation of a 30% efficiency boost and a 70% reduction in personnel.
The Pinnacle of Innovation
These remarkable applications represent just a glimpse of what 5G technology is making possible in China’s enterprise landscape. Whether it’s transforming healthcare, enhancing agriculture, automating ports, or revolutionizing cultural preservation, 5G is ushering in an era of unprecedented innovation.
As network teams at multinational enterprises with operations in China, it’s important to understand the technical details behind these achievements to remain competitive in the Chinese market. With each new deployment, the potential for 5G to redefine industries and drive progress becomes more evident. To further explore the dynamic world of private 5G and its impact on the telecommunications landscape in China, and specific China Telecom use-cases, please contact China Telecom Americas today.
