China-led 5G broadcasting standard adopted by global telecom authority

In a major step forward for global media technology, China Media Group (CMG) has led the creation of a new international standard that will make it easier to use 5G networks for live video and audio broadcasting.

The new standard, known as ITU-R BT.2550, explains how broadcasters can use 5G technology to produce and share high-quality content more efficiently. It was officially released on Friday by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations agency responsible for setting global communication standards.

This is now the sixth international broadcasting standard developed or co-developed by CMG. These standards help define how TV and online video content should be made, shared and displayed at the highest quality.

The idea of this latest standard was first introduced in early 2024. It builds on CMG's experience using 5G technology to broadcast major events and shows how mobile networks can support faster and more flexible ways of making TV and online content.

During its development, experts from Europe suggested adding examples from their own 5G broadcasting projects. After working together to improve the document, the final version was approved earlier this year.

Representatives from many countries praised the standard, saying it will help broadcasters around the world take full advantage of 5G's speed and reliability.

Two more proposed standards – one about using cloud computing for media production and another about advanced video color technology – are still under review and expected to be approved soon.

These achievements show that China is becoming a key player in shaping how media content is created and delivered around the world, especially as new technologies like AI and ultra-high-definition video become more common.