Trends
Wi-Fi groups urge EU to keep 6 GHz band free for public use
Wi-Fi advocates urge the EU to preserve upper 6 GHz band for unlicensed use amid pressure from mobile operators.
Headline
Wi-Fi advocates urge the EU to preserve upper 6 GHz band for unlicensed use amid pressure from mobile operators.
Context
The Wi-Fi industry is calling on the European Commission to keep the upper 6 GHz band (6425–7125 MHz) unlicensed, warning that changing its status could undermine Europe’s digital progress. In a joint statement, over 50 organisations—including the Wi-Fi Alliance, Dynamic Spectrum Alliance, and OpenWrt—urged the EU to resist pressure from mobile operators who want exclusive access to the spectrum for 5G and future 6G services. The call follows moves by some EU member states and mobile industry groups to advocate licensing the band for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT). Regulators in the US, UK, Brazil and South Korea have already opened the full 6 GHz band for unlicensed use, supporting technologies like Wi-Fi 6E and the emerging WIFI-7 standard.
Evidence
Pending intelligence enrichment.
Analysis
The European Commission is currently conducting an impact assessment on the use of the upper 6 GHz band, expected to inform its final decision later this year. Also Read: Private wireless network vs WIFI Also Read: Does fibre optic improve WiFi? How it boosts your connection The outcome of the EU’s decision could significantly shape the region’s connectivity landscape for decades. Wi-Fi networks carry more than 70% of all mobile traffic, according to Cisco, and advocates argue that limiting spectrum for Wi-Fi would risk congestion, reduce performance, and stall innovation in homes, businesses and public spaces. Organisations such as the Wi-Fi Alliance argue that unlicensed access to the upper 6 GHz band is crucial for next-generation wireless technologies, including smart cities, Industry 4.0, and edge computing. They also warn that favouring licensed mobile use could drive up costs and reduce competitiveness for European companies relying on open, shared connectivity.
Key Points
- Industry bodies warn that licensing the upper 6 GHz band could harm innovation and public internet access.
- EU regulators are under pressure as member states push to reserve the band for mobile operators.
Actions
Pending intelligence enrichment.
