Ofcom consults on sharing 6 GHz spectrum for Wi-Fi and mobile
UK regulator Ofcom has launched a new consultation on the sharing of the upper 6 GHz band (6425 to 7125MHz) between Wi-Fi and mobile.
In its statement, Ofcom recognises that demand for data has grown significantly in recent years – from people using both Wi-Fi and mobile networks – and it expects this demand to continue which will put further pressure on the 6 GHz band.
The upper 6 GHz spectrum band – which will be discussed at the upcoming WRC-23 – is currently being sought by mobile industry pursuing licensed use and low power unlicensed proponents, such as Wi-Fi.
Ofcom believes its alternative hybrid sharing approach can address conflicting demands, and therefore, it is exploring the possibility of enabling the indoor use of Wi-Fi while also enabling licensed mobile use outdoors.
Another idea suggested was geographic sharing. In this instance, the frequencies would be reserved for mobile use in specific high-traffic locations and used for Wi-Fi elsewhere.
Aside from identifying mechanisms to achieve its hybrid sharing approach, it said it’s also pushing for international harmonization of hybrid sharing in this band to enable economies of scale for equipment.
Ofcom said it is inviting comments on its new approach by 15 September. For more information, click here.
In 2021, techUK's Communications Infrastructure and Services Programme compiled industry views on the future use of the whole 6 GHz band, you can access that report here.
If you’d like to contribute to techUK’s consultation response, please get in touch with the team below.
Tales Gaspar
Tales Gaspar
Tales has a background in law and economics, with previous experience in the regulation of new technologies and infrastructure.
In the UK and Europe, he offered consultancy on intellectual property rights of cellular and IoT technologies and on the regulatory procedures at the ITU as a Global Fellow at the European Space Policy Institute (ESPI).
Tales has an LL.M in Law and Business by the Getulio Vargas Foundation (FGV) and an MSc in Regulation at the London School of Economics, with a specialization in Government and Law.
- Email:
- [email protected]
- Phone:
- +44 (0) 0207 331 2000
- Website:
- www.techUK.org
- LinkedIn:
- www.linkedin.com/in/talesngaspar
Josh Turpin
Josh Turpin
Josh joined techUK as a Programme Manager for Telecoms and Net Zero in August 2024.
In this role, working jointly across the techUK Telecoms and Climate Programmes, Josh is responsible for leading on telecoms infrastructure deployment and uptake and supporting innovation opportunities, as well as looking at how the tech sector can be further utilised in the UK’s decarbonisation efforts.
Prior to joining techUK, Josh’s background was in public affairs and communications, working for organisations across a diverse portfolio of sectors including defence, telecoms and infrastructure; aiding clients through stakeholder engagement, crisis communications, media outreach as well as secretariat duties.
Outside of work, Josh has a keen interest in music, painting and sailing.
- Email:
- [email protected]
- Phone:
- 020 7331 2038
- LinkedIn:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-turpin/