China Mobile's Chongqing branch launched the first 5G test network in the southwestern metropolis of Chongqing on April 23, marking a starting step toward 5G commercialization in China.

Chongqing was among the first batch of cities to build and test-run 5G networks in China. According to the company, the test network has begun operating in the municipality's Liangjiang New Area and will be expanded to the whole city step by step.

The company will continue to increase investment in communications equipment, ancillary facilities, and R&D expenses, supporting the construction of a 5G infrastructure network.

China Mobile's Chongqing branch launches the first 5G test network in the southwestern metropolis of Chongqing on April 23. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The test network is open to individuals and companies that have the intention of jointly carrying out 5G innovations in such areas as the internet of vehicles, automatic driving, smart cities and online AR/VR -augmented reality and virtual reality.

The test period will last until official 5G commercialization.

Visitors watch 360 degree VR live streaming from an unmanned drone. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

China Mobile's Chongqing branch said that based on the platform and resource advantages of the Chongqing Lab of China Mobile's 5G Joint Innovation Center, it will further work on innovative product design, development, verification of key technologies, and exploration and incubation of business models.

The 5G network also explores applications in 5G drones, mobile medical care, and industrial Internet.