The 6 GHz spectrum has become a focal point of contention between telecom operators and technology companies, heralding significant implications for India’s wireless connectivity landscape. Here’s an overview of the ongoing conflict and its potential impact:
Spectrum Potential and Current Usage
The 6 GHz spectrum holds tremendous promise, capable of supporting internet speeds of up to 10 Gbps, akin to 5G, or 100 times faster than 4G. Despite its potential, the spectrum remains largely untapped, currently utilized partly by the Indian Space Research Organisation for satellite operations.
Role of India in WRC Deliberations
Although India falls within region 3, the ongoing ITU World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC) in Dubai will shape decisions regarding the upper 6 GHz band (6.425-7.125) for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT). India’s stance holds weight, influencing outcomes not only for its own wireless infrastructure but also for other region 3 countries like China, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
Delicensing Dynamics
While the WRC does not directly address spectrum delicensing, countries have autonomy in deciding whether to delicense specific spectrum bands. For instance, the US has delicensed the entire 6 GHz band, opposing its use for IMT, while China has earmarked it for 5G/6G.
Telecom Industry Advocacy for IMT Usage
Telecom operators in India, represented by industry body COAI, advocate for reserving the entire 6 GHz band (1200 MHz) for IMT. They argue that securing this spectrum is vital for deploying 5G and eventual 6G networks, ensuring adequate bandwidth to meet evolving connectivity demands.
Technology Industry Push for WiFi Delicensing
Conversely, the technology sector, led by the Broadband India Forum (BIF), urges for delicensing the 6 GHz band to bolster WiFi usage. Highlighting a spectrum deficit for WiFi, tech players emphasize the need to optimize connectivity for advanced internet mobile applications, ensuring users can fully harness their capabilities.
The outcome of this spectrum battle will significantly shape India’s wireless infrastructure, influencing the trajectory of 5G and beyond, as well as the accessibility and performance of emerging digital technologies.
