Why it matters:
The breakthrough underscores Beijing’s push to lead the global race in next-generation communications technology, a sector seen as critical to artificial intelligence, defense, and future economic competitiveness.
The big picture:
The chip, developed by scientists at Peking University and the University of Hong Kong, integrates what previously required nine separate radio systems into a single fingernail-sized unit measuring 11 by 1.7 millimetres.
It combines microwave, millimetre-wave, and terahertz bands, enabling seamless switching between wide-coverage and ultra-high-speed applications.
Researchers say the technology could help narrow the digital divide between urban and rural areas by expanding high-speed connectivity.
What they’re saying:
According to the South China Morning Post, the chip marks the first time full-spectrum 6G coverage has been achieved on a single device.
The research team said the innovation will serve as a foundation for AI-driven wireless networks.
Key points:
- The chip uses photonics technology to achieve ultra-fast mobile internet speeds above 100 Gbps.
- It represents a step forward in China’s ambitions to dominate global 6G standards, with commercial rollout expected later in the decade.
- By integrating multiple frequency bands, the design addresses one of the major technical challenges of 6G: balancing coverage with speed.
Go deeper:
The US, Europe, and China are locked in a race to define 6G standards, with competition expected to shape future geopolitical alignments in technology.
China’s announcement follows significant state investment in 6G research, part of its broader strategy to reduce dependence on Western technologies.
Mojtaba Darabi - Mahboubeh Habibi
