Ofcom is proposing local licences on a shared-access basis, something that is likely to be welcomed by big tech
There is close alignment with the current use of the lower 6GHz band: Ofcom is seeking views on its proposed approach to spectrum sharing in the upper 6GHz band. Ofcom’s initial proposal is to make the 6425–7070MHz band available under its Shared Access licence framework for local, low-power indoor use. This would be enabled on a technology-neutral basis, although Ofcom expects radio local area network (RLAN) technologies such as Wi-Fi to be the most likely to be used. In practice there would be close alignment with the existing allocation of the lower 6GHz band, which Ofcom made available for RLAN use on a licence-exempt basis in 2020. Outdoor use would not be permitted (unlike the lower 6GHz band where it is allowed for very low-power use).
Striking a balance between different future interests: Ofcom’s proposal is in keeping with its 2021 spectrum management strategy to promote sharing, localised use, and innovation. Ofcom is aware of industry interest around this band, both for licence-exempt consumer Wi-Fi and for licensed 5G mobile networks. The regulator believes its proposal strikes the right balance between these different interests, while putting to use a band that is currently unused in many geographical locations – especially indoors. Licensed use now could allow Ofcom to take either direction in the future. Internationally, work to establish technical compatibility with the upper 6GHz band is still ongoing, and it is likely to be some time before the band is allocated to International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) which would pose the risk of revoking the local licences. On the other hand, if Ofcom were eventually to authorise licence-exempt Wi-Fi, the proposed licences would likely be able to coexist with it.
Big tech industry likely to welcome the focus on indoor use: Ofcom’s proposal is likely to be welcomed by big tech. In a recent report, TechUK called on Ofcom to focus on facilitating solutions for the provision of indoor network capability and the authorisation regimes required to support them. While TechUK’s focus was on the 26GHz band, with possible authorisation of low-power indoors use for that band, the 6GHz band was also mentioned as a band of interest. Stakeholders will be able to provide input on Ofcom’s proposal until 11 April.
Source: https://www.ofcom.org.uk/consultations-and-statements/category-2/spectrum-sharing-upper-6-ghz-band
