A woman tries out a VR device connected to a 5G network in Nantong on May 15. [Photo/zgnt.net]

Nantong completed its first video call using the superfast 5G network operated by China Telecom on May 15, marking a significant milestone in promoting the large-scale commercial use of the network.

The 5G network features ultrahigh transmission rates, enhanced capacity, and reduced latency compared to 4G networks. It is at least 10 times faster than 4G at peak rates and is expected to be conducive to virtual reality (VR), self-driving automobiles, the internet of things, smart homes, and cloud services.

China Telecom, one of China’s three major telecommunication service providers, plans to build nearly 1,000 5G stations in Nantong and begin trial operations this year. Large-scale commercial adoption of 5G is projected to begin in 2020.

According to Yuan Liyi, deputy general manager of China Telecom Nantong, the company has started a 5G deployment program in several public areas, including the city’s administrative service center and the Haohe River scenic area, where users will be able to try out the service.

A 5G smart tourism project will also be launched during the 2019 China Forest Tour Festival held in Nantong in October. The 5G network will allow tourists to watch live broadcasts of the scenery at Haohe River and Langshan Mountain.