Zhejiang plans to expand high-speed networks and advance 6G research under a communications development plan for 2026 to 2030, with Hangzhou seeking a leading role in the next generation of mobile technology.

Outlined at a news conference in Hangzhou, the plan calls for wider 5G-Advanced and 10-gigabit fiber networks, better coverage in mountainous areas and islands, and stronger emergency communications.

By 2030, the province aims to increase its artificial intelligence computing capacity to 450 quintillion floating-point operations per second (450 EFLOPS) and develop more than 300 high-standard 5G factories.

Satellite communications are another priority. Zhejiang plans to expand trials of services that connect mobile phones directly to satellites, helping users communicate beyond the reach of ground-based networks. More portable satellite stations and other emergency equipment are intended to help maintain communications during typhoons, heavy rain, and power outages.

The plan also calls for wider use of networks and computing resources in manufacturing, transport, healthcare, and education, alongside lower-cost digital tools for smaller businesses.

For households, proposed applications include connected home devices, cloud gaming, and services accessible through mobile calls. Zhejiang will also improve services for older users and make telecom packages and charges clearer.

Measures against telecom fraud include tighter checks on suspicious phone-card applications and usage, stronger oversight of websites and apps, and cooperation with police. Network and data protection will be strengthened in emerging fields including artificial intelligence and connected vehicles.