Nation gains advantage in 5G race

As China aims to commercialize 5G services in 2019, one year ahead of its previous schedule, a new report shows that the country is already slightly ahead of South Korea and the United States in the race to develop fifth generation wireless networks.

The study released by the CTIA, a US-based industry association of wireless carriers, suggested that the US is lagging in the effort to deploy the superfast wireless systems that will be needed for self-driving cars, telemedicine and other technologies.

The report prepared by research firm Analysys Mason found that all major Chinese providers have committed to specific launch dates and the government has committed to allocate a spectrum for the carriers.