(Yicai Global) Dec. 4 -- Chinese smartphone maker Vivo Communication Technology Co. will kick off the research and development for its 5G prototype handsets next year and will combine 5G and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.

Vivo plans to release a commercial 5G cellphone in 2019 and release a 5G device that leverages AI in 2021, Vivo Chief Executive Shen Wei said at an industry summit.

Vivo's 5G phones will connect with virtual reality, augmented reality and wearable devices as well as intelligent instruments and sensors, Shen said. Users will be able to operate these devices through their 5G mobile phones, said Shen.