UK regulator Ofcom has published new consultations on future mobile spectrum use. It is consulting on proposals to expand spectrum access for mobile services in the 3.6-3.3.8 GHz band, which has been identified by the UK and EU as the primary band for 5G. It is also inviting responses from stakeholders on 5G spectrum access at 26 GHz.
The document relating to 3.6-3.8 GHz outlines Ofcom's approach to existing users of the band. It is proposing to remove current authorisations for fixed links and no longer take registered satellite earth stations with a receive component in the 3.6GHz to 3.8GHz band into account for frequency management purposes. This would enable the future deployment of mobile services in the 3.6-3.8 GHz band in many areas from around 2020. The consultation closes on 22 September.
The 26 GHz band covers the 3.25 GHz of spectrum between 24.25-27.5 GHz and is being prioritised across Europe as the first high frequency band for 5G. Ofcom is inviting input from stakeholders on all aspects related to making the 26 GHz band available for 5G. The document also sets out Ofcom's current thinking on which other bands it will prioritise for 5G, and confirms its intention to start working on making available spectrum in the 66-71 GHz band.
