[EUROPE] A significant dispute has emerged within the European Union regarding the allocation of the upper 6GHz frequency band, a pivotal spectrum range for both Wi-Fi and mobile networks. The Wi-Fi industry is advocating for unrestricted access to this band to meet the surging demand for high-speed internet, while mobile operators are pushing for exclusive use to support the rollout of 5G and future 6G technologies.
The Wi-Fi Industry's Appeal
On Wednesday, 58 internet providers and industry associations, coordinated by the Dynamic Spectrum Alliance, sent a letter to EU Digital Commissioner Henna Virkkunen urging the European Commission to designate the upper 6GHz band (6.425–7.125 GHz) for unlicensed Wi-Fi use. They argue that expanding Wi-Fi capacity is crucial for maintaining Europe's global competitiveness and meeting the increasing demand for wireless connectivity in homes, offices, and industrial environments. Without additional spectrum, they warn, businesses could face higher costs and limited access to new technologies.
Advocates emphasize that most internet traffic in Europe occurs indoors and is facilitated by Wi-Fi. Martha Suarez, president of the Dynamic Spectrum Alliance, highlighted that "most of the traffic in Europe is indoors. And most of it starts or ends by a Wi-Fi connection."
Mobile Operators' Counterargument
Conversely, 12 major European telecom operators, including Vodafone, Deutsche Telekom, Orange, and TIM, have jointly urged regulators to reserve the entire upper 6GHz band for mobile networks. In a letter seen by Reuters, the companies emphasized that this spectrum is one of the few remaining mid-band resources capable of supporting growing data demands while maintaining adequate coverage. They warned that delaying this decision could undermine Europe's competitiveness and hinder its chances of leading in 6G innovation.
The operators argue that enabling this band for mobile use will ensure consumers and businesses receive faster and more reliable 5G services over the next five to ten years. They also expressed concerns about U.S. companies seeking to secure further 6GHz capacity in Europe.
Regulatory Developments
The European Commission is expected to propose the Digital Networks Act later in 2025 to address connectivity challenges, including a more coordinated approach to spectrum policy across member states. The Radio Spectrum Policy Group, which assists the Commission in developing spectrum policy, is scheduled to ... to discuss spectrum policy.
Global Context
Other countries have already allocated portions of ... . The U.S., Canada, and South Korea have opened up the band for unlicensed Wi-Fi services, while China allocated it for 5G and ... services in 2023. Europe, however, has yet to decide on its use, leading to concerns about falling behind in the global race for wireless innovation.
The ongoing debate over the 6GHz spectrum allocation underscores the balancing act regulators face in fostering innovation, ensuring competitive markets, and meeting the diverse needs of consumers and industries. As the EU moves toward a decision, the outcome will have significant implications for the future of wireless connectivity in Europe.
WhatsApp
Instagram
Threads
