🌍 Global Telecom Burns Bright: Finland Delivers First 5G‑A Network
In March 2025, Elisa announced Finland’s first commercial 5G‑Advanced (5.5G) rollout following successful trials by Finnish operator DNA, which had already demonstrated 10 Gbps speeds on Release 18 standards in late 2023 .
5G‑A offers faster speeds, lower latency, AI-powered optimization, advanced network slicing, and support for AI-enabled applications like XR and autonomous vehicles.
Finland’s adoption of Release 18 strengthens its position as a leader in European digital infrastructure—with 72% 5G coverage and extensive adoption of cloud, AI, and big data technologies among SMEs.
🇨🇳 China’s Sprint Toward 6G: Field Tests, Speed Records & Satellite Networks
China is charging ahead in the global 6G race, targeting full deployment by 2030. The country is already wrapping up technical standard-setting by 2025 and rolling out test networks in major cities like Henan, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.
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In July 2025, China Mobile launched the first field test 6G network, achieving speeds over 50 Gbps—over 100× faster than typical 5G downloads—with ten test sites engaging advanced terahertz and AI-driven radio bands .
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Earlier breakthroughs include satellite-to-ground laser communication tests reaching 100 Gbps, positioning China ahead of competitors like Starlink in mobile ultra-high-speed links
China is investing billions in this tech race—issuing patents, submitting international standard proposals, and building state-backed 6G ecosystem infrastructure
📡 What’s New in 5G‑A & 6G: Why It Matters
| Technology | What It Enables | Real-World Applications |
|---|---|---|
| 5G‑Advanced | 10 Gbps speeds, sub-ms latency, AI native | Industrial IoT, XR/AR, edge automation |
| 6G (early trials) | 50 Gbps, terahertz/X-band, AI-integrated networks | Smart cities, telemedicine, holographic comms |
| Satellite comms | laser links & NTN support | Rural connectivity, remote operations |
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AI & ML enhanced networks enable predictive maintenance, smarter slicing, and near-zero handover disruption—a game changer for autonomous vehicles and high-speed transport systems
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Non-terrestrial networks (NTN) promise global coverage by integrating drones, satellites, and terrestrial infrastructure for seamless connectivity
Q1: What is 5G‑Advanced and how is it different from regular 5G?
A: It’s the Release 18 upgrade—also called 5.5G—with higher speeds, AI support, better energy efficiency, and expanded network slicing capabilities.Q2: When did Finland launch its first 5G‑A network?
A: Elisa launched Finland’s first commercial 5G‑A network in February 2025 after successful trials by DNA .Q3: How fast is China’s 6G compared to 5G?
A: China’s 6G test network has achieved speeds above 50 Gbps, making it over 100× faster than typical 5G.Q4: When is 6G expected to be commercially available?
A: Most experts expect global commercial rollout around 2030, with standards defined by 2025–2027