To help keep up with continued rise in data traffic, spectrum sharing can play a complementary role. But it is essential to consider which bands suit sharing and select the right sharing framework. The GSMA’s updated positions offer guidance for regulators that want to support innovative and affordable mobile services.<\/p>\n
The continued rise in data traffic\u00a0means mobile services rely on access to growing amounts of spectrum to meet demand. However, it is increasingly difficult to completely clear new frequency bands for future mobile use. Spectrum sharing may be a way to help, when clearing a band is not possible, by enabling mobile access to additional bands in areas, and at times, when other services are not using them.<\/p>\n
There are a couple of main points to think about when considering spectrum sharing.\u00a0Firstly, the proposed band should provide enough spectrum in areas where mobile operators are seeing growing demand.<\/p>\n
Secondly, is getting the sharing framework right. It controls who can share the band and defines the usage rights and limitations. A successful one is understandable, usable and tailored to the needs of the users. It should include\u00a0certainty of access and sufficient block sizes, for example. Key variables are: the number of access tiers, access guarantees and access terms.<\/p>\n
The position paper addresses three types of frameworks:\u00a0CBRS-type approaches,\u00a0Licensed Shared Access and\u00a0Concurrent Shared Access (e.g. club licensing).<\/p>\n
While spectrum sharing holds potential, it cannot supplant the need for exclusively licensed mobile spectrum. The global success of mobile services rests on a foundation of exclusively licensed spectrum as it supports widespread services and the certainty needed for long-term heavy network investment and high-quality service. However, sharing can play a complementary role to traditional spectrum licensing by allowing mobile services to access new bands where there are no other reasonable alternatives.<\/p>\n
1. Spectrum sharing is an opportunity to open up access to new spectrum for mobile services but needs careful planning to succeed<\/p>\n
2. Exclusive licensing has been central to the success of mobile services and must continue. Spectrum sharing
\ndecisions should be mindful of the need for additional exclusive spectrum<\/p>\n
3. Sharing will only be useful for operators if the proposed band is harmonised for mobile use. It must also be available and usable in sufficient quantities in areas and at times where needed<\/p>\n
4. Operators favour a simple sharing framework that is investment-friendly and supports reliable, high-quality mobile services<\/p>\n
5. Mobile operators should not be prohibited from voluntarily sharing their spectrum to support faster services, improve coverage and drive innovation<\/p>\n
6. Sharing can play a role in the 5G era but poor implementation risks harming its potential<\/p>\n
7. Regulators need to help incentivise incumbents in attractive bands to share<\/p>\n
8. The framework should balance the current and future requirements of incumbents and sharers<\/p>\n
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