The speed and capabilities that 5G promises depend on spectrum in mid-bands such as 6 GHz. Spectrum is the radio frequencies where signals travel – from radio or cell phones – and is in the hands of governments, which are often used by governments. granted under contract for companies to operate. However, when it comes to 5G, governments are diverging: China will use the entire 1200 MHz in the 6 GHz band for 5G. Europe has split the band, with the top considered for 5G, but a 500 MHz stretch available for Wi-Fi. Africa and parts of the Middle East are taking a similar approach.
At the other extreme, the United States and much of Latin America have stated that they will not make any of this valuable resource available for 5G, and will be offered in its entirety for Wi-Fi and other unlicensed technologies, according to the GSMA. (the association of mobile operators).
“Having guarantees when it comes to how information travels in the networks, especially for supercritical networks, is one of the relevant aspects that must be considered when licensing the spectrum and that must be defined before deploying the networks”, Celedonio Von Wuthenau, Nokia’s director of Government Relations for Latin America, told Expansión.
The 6 GHz band is essential not only for mobile operators to provide improved connectivity, which implies greater social inclusion, but also to realize the speeds and capacities that smart cities, transportation and factories require. It is estimated that 5G networks will need 2 GHz of mid-band spectrum over the next decade to realize their full potential.
“5G has the potential to increase global GDP by $ 2.2 trillion,” said John Giusti, Chief Regulatory Officer, GSMA. “But there is a clear threat to this growth if enough 6 GHz spectrum is not made available to 5G. Clarity and certainty are essential to foster massive long-term investments in this critical infrastructure. “
Depending on the needs of the countries, the incumbent services and the existing fiber footprint, the lower half of the 6 GHz range (5925-6425 MHz) could be opened to unlicensed use with technology neutral rules.
