EU reserves upper 6 GHz for mobile use, sparking Wi-Fi concerns

EU reserves upper 6 GHz for mobile use, sparking Wi-Fi concerns is profiled by BTW Media because published evidence links it to internet infrastructure, governance, operational dependencies, or market visibility.

• The EU’s Radio Spectrum Policy Group has recommended reserving 540 MHz of the 6 GHz band for mobile operators, sparking mixed reactions.
• The Wi-Fi industry expresses concern, while mobile operators see it as a step forward for 6G development.

What happened: EU recommends reserving upper 6 GHz for mobile use, paving way for 6G

The European Union’s Radio Spectrum Policy Group (RSPG) has officially recommended reserving the upper 6 GHz spectrum band for licensed mobile use. The decision, which was leaked last week before being confirmed, sets the stage for mobile operators to gain priority access to 540 MHz in the 6585-7125 MHz range. This move is seen as a crucial step in preparing for the launch of 6G technology in Europe.

The recommendation is welcomed by mobile industry groups like the GSMA, which describe it as an important development towards a future-proof 6G spectrum roadmap. However, it also includes a provision for a 160 MHz guard band (6425-6585 MHz), which will initially serve to protect Wi-Fi users in the lower 6 GHz range.

This guard band is subject to change depending on the outcomes of the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-27), which will decide whether additional spectrum in the 7125-7250 MHz range will be allocated for mobile use. If this happens, the guard band could be reassigned for unlicensed Wi-Fi use. The decision at WRC-27 will determine whether mobile operators ultimately gain access to 665 MHz or 700 MHz of spectrum in the upper 6 GHz band.

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Why it’s important

The decision to reserve the upper 6 GHz spectrum for mobile use is a significant one for the European digital ecosystem. The GSMA has emphasised that sufficient spectrum is essential for achieving Europe’s connectivity and growth goals, particularly as the continent looks to regain competitiveness in the global mobile industry. However, the Wi-Fi industry sees this as a missed opportunity. Some countries, such as the US, Saudi Arabia, and South Korea, have already allocated the entire 6 GHz band for unlicensed use, which they believe better serves the needs of digital innovation.

Kevin Robinson, a representative of the Wi-Fi industry, expressed concerns that this decision sends a troubling message to Europe’s digital ecosystem, potentially stalling innovation and competition in the Wi-Fi space. The decision is expected to prompt further discussions as the outcome of WRC-27 looms.