Telecom giants get 5G frequencies

The move is part of China's broad push to accelerate the commercialization of 5G, aiming to be a key player in the global race to apply the next-generation technology. At least 10 times faster than 4G, the technology is expected to revolutionize the tech world in the near future.

In the coming 5G era, higher reliability and lower latency can be realized, making the internet of things more effective. It will take on tasks that are impossible in the 4G era, such as overseeing self-driving cars.

Yang Hua, secretary-general of the Telecommunication Development Industry Alliance, says telecom equipment that use different frequencies also differ greatly in signal and information channels. Every time a telecom frequency is changed, it will take eight to 10 months to redevelop products.

"Clarifying the different frequency bands for the big three telecom carriers will enable telecom operators and equipment manufacturers to determine product development goals and greatly accelerate the process in all aspects of the value chain. This is of great significance in the industry," Yang said.

The major operators have already started developing their 5G systems. China Mobile plans to unveil 5G smartphones in the first half of 2019, ahead of launching 5G trials in 2019 and the network's full commercialization in 2020.