China Mobile has launched what it says is the world’s first functioning 6G network, reaching real-world speeds of up to 280 Gbps — roughly ten times faster than today’s 5G systems. The company has rolled out ten trial sites, relying on low-Earth orbit satellites to deliver ultra-high-speed connections with minimal latency.

At such speeds, a 50GB film could be downloaded in around 1.4 seconds. Although still in the testing phase, the development is fueling the global race to advance next-generation connectivity, with potential game-changing impacts on areas such as artificial intelligence and immersive virtual environments.