The Radio Spectrum Policy Group (RSPG) Opinion on the upper 6 GHz band is welcome recognition of the importance of ensuring Europe\u2019s mobile industry has the spectrum it needs for future growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The opinion confirms that either 665 or 700 MHz of spectrum within the 6.425-7.250 GHz range will be designated for mobile use. This can allow for the minimum of 200 MHz per operators that will be required for 6G launches (6G will operate in 200-400 MHz channels). Thus, it marks a positive step toward building a robust spectrum roadmap for the launch of 6G in Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Countries representing more than 80% of the global population have now shown support for mobile in the upper 6 GHz band. The ultimate goal is that European citizens should reap the same benefits from economies of scale that come with harmonisation of the band across most of the rest of the world. The GSMA believes that the opinion is a good first step on this path and will continue working with all countries towards this goal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Under RSPG\u2019s opinion, 540 MHz (6.585\u20137.125 GHz) are designated now for priority mobile use, with an additional 160 MHz (6.425\u20136.585 GHz) or 125 MHz (7.125\u20137.250 GHz) to be confirmed after WRC-27.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The opinion recognises that a constrained mobile assignment of only 540 MHz of the upper 6 GHz band for licensed mobile use would, on its own, have fallen short of what is required for Europe to build advanced, resilient, and sovereign mobile networks. In other geographies, the entire upper band 6 GHz has been allocated to mobile, allowing for at least 700 MHz of capacity even before WRC-27.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Europe needs to strengthen its position in quality, speed and resilience of mobile networks and to remain competitive against other major markets – in particular East Asia, the Gulf and the USA. These countries may yet go further at WRC-27 and Europe will need to continue progress on supporting ongoing needs for the launch of 6G in the 2030s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Access to sufficient spectrum is vital for connectivity goals and for supporting Europe\u2019s strategic ambitions of regaining competitiveness and growth. Member States must now continue to engage with the RSPG on its 6G roadmap and international preparations for WRC-27 to ensure Europe’s mobile industry secures sufficient mid-band spectrum for its ongoing and future needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n