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The Importance of 6 GHz to Mobile Evolution
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6 GHz for IMT

6 GHz marks the next step in mobile’s evolution. The upper band at 6.425-7.125 GHz is today harmonised across a footprint representing over 80% of the global population. 

6 GHz provides city-wide capacity on existing network grids and may be used for 5G-Advanced or 6G. The upper band at 6.425-7.125 GHz is today harmonised across a footprint representing over 80% of the global population. Its capacity can provide connectivity to schools and hospitals, governments and industries, businesses and consumers.

REPORT:

6 GHz in APAC

GSMA promo image on 6 GHz in APAC shows a city skyline at dusk with a tall tower in the centre. Red banners state "6 GHz in APAC" and mobile frequencies, highlighting the importance of 6 GHz mobile spectrum. Text below discusses 5G growth, APAC markets, and the need for more spectrum.
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REPORT:

6 GHz in Europe

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REPORT:

6 GHz in LATAM

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Why 6 GHz matters and next steps

1

Timely availability of 6 GHz, at reasonable conditions and price, will drive cost-efficient network deployment, help lower the broadband usage gap and support digital inclusion.

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2

Future evolution of mobile will be optimised for wider 200-400 MHz channels per operator and 6 GHz is one of the few spectrum bands that can support multiple operators at these channel sizes.

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3

The 6 GHz band at 6.425-7.125 GHz should be made available at full power in clean, contiguous spectrum for licensed, mobile.

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700 MHz of capacity in the upper 6 GHz band allows for wide-channel options that suit 5G-Advanced and 6G. The 6 GHz band can give two operators 350 MHz channels or three operators around 230 MHz.

2 x 350 MHz channels

6.425 GHz

7.125 GHz

3 x 230 MHz channels

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The Importance of 6 GHz to Mobile Evolution

Wed, 27 Nov | 12:30 (GMT)
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Rodrigo C. Gebrim

Anatel

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Kalvin Bahia

GSMA Intelligence

6 GHz development principles

The research found that the outlook for the 6 GHz IMT ecosystem is robust, with the market aligned on the following principles:

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Technical barriers

There are no technical barriers to developing, and commercialising, 6 GHz IMT solutions. Device and infrastructure solutions can operate in the band, just like any other.

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Ecosystem readiness

Key players in device component and network infrastructure ecosystems are ready to develop 6 GHz IMT products in line with customer demand.

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Development triggers

The main trigger for the commencement of product development will be operator demand, already driven by WRC-23 and national regulatory decisions.

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Development timeline

The first commercially available devices, starting with CPEs, are expected to arrive in 2026.

The importance of 6 GHz and spectrum planning

Luiz Felippe Zoghbi

The Benefits of Spectrum

Luiz Felippe Zoghbi

Spectrum Planning and Roadmaps

Ross Bateson

Spectrum for 6G

Further research

6 GHz CTO letter:
Essential Action for Europe’s Mobile Future

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The Evolution of Mid-Band Mobile Spectrum in the US

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6 GHz in Thailand

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A hand holds a mobile phone displaying a holographic cityscape with glowing skyscrapers and vertical light beams, symbolising 6 GHz mobile technology and futuristic smart cities.

Mobile Evolution in 6 GHz

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A nighttime cityscape with glowing dots connected by light lines above the buildings, symbolising digital connectivity. The city is illuminated by streetlights and building lights, with a bright, winding road visible in the foreground—evoking the seamless flow of 6 GHz mobile networks weaving through urban life.

The 6 GHz IMT Ecosystem

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A nighttime cityscape with illuminated skyscrapers and streets. White glowing dots and connecting lines are superimposed over the scene, symbolizing a digital network and connectivity across the urban environment.

6 GHz Readiness

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More information on 6 GHz

Where are we now with 6 GHz?

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Commercialising the 6 GHz IMT Ecosystem

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6 GHz to dominate mobile capacity planning

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