European Operators Issue 6G Spectrum Warning

Twelve of Europe’s biggest telco operators urged regulators to make the entire upper 6 GHz band available for mobile services. The companies argue that the move is necessary to ensure the region does not fall behind the US in the launch and development of 6G.

In a letter signed by CTOs from operators, including Vodafone Group, Deutsche Telekom, Telefonica, Telecom Italia, and Orange, the companies stated they remain committed to developing and investing in European connectivity, but urged a strategic approach on the upper 6 GHz band. The US opened the band for Wi-Fi in 2020, while China allocated it for 5G and 6G two years ago. Europe has not decided on how to farm it out. Most European nations auctioned airwaves in the 3.4GHz to 3.8GHz band for initial 5G deployments.

The letter pointed to escalating demands on current spectrum capacity, and with future services including 6G on the horizon, the entirety of the upper 6 GHz band must be made available to mobile networks. “Mobile alone is expected to contribute to 8.4% of global GDP by 2030. Without access to the upper 6GHz, mobile’s impact on GDP growth will be curtailed significantly,” the letter read. On 6G, the operators argue that without more spectrum, services in the band would be significantly curtailed and ultimately jeopardise Europe’s opportunity to play a leading role in 6G deployment.

The operators added they are also concerned that access to the band is still sought for Wi-Fi by US stakeholders, pointing out that telcos are the primary providers of Wi-Fi services to European consumers and enterprises. If the decision to make the spectrum available to European operators is delayed, while US technology interests are permitted to secure further 6GHz capacity, Europe’s competitiveness would be threatened.