Call for inputs on 5G spectrum access at 26 GHZ and update on bands above 30 GHz

This Call for Inputs (CFI) seeks information from stakeholders that will inform our ongoing programme of work to make spectrum in the 26 GHz band available for 5G wireless networks. It also sets out our current thinking on which other bands we will prioritise for 5G.

5G is the next generation of wireless network technology and is being designed to deliver more data, to more devices and more consistently than previous technologies.

The 26 GHz band covers the 3.25 GHz of spectrum between 24.25 GHz and 27.5 GHz and is being prioritised across Europe as the first high frequency band for 5G. This high frequency spectrum (known as ‘mmWave spectrum’), offers very high data capacity and speeds but with a limited range.

5G networks are being designed to be more flexible than previous generations of mobile networks and will be configurable to provide bespoke services to different types of customer. They will also have the capability to be deployed as enhancements to existing mobile networks or as a standalone, localised network. We expect these new features to fuel innovation, create new markets and, potentially, increase the number of organisations wishing to access spectrum.

The limited range of operation in the mmWave spectrum, combined with new technologies being developed for 5G, could facilitate greater geographic reuse of spectrum and thereby allow more operators to deploy networks than has been previously possible.

The document is aimed at gathering input from stakeholders on all aspects related to making the 26 GHz band available for 5G. We are seeking views from stakeholders who have an interest in deploying networks, from equipment manufacturers planning to build chip sets and network equipment and we also welcome views more generally on authorisation options stakeholders consider best meet their deployment needs and service offering.

The document also sets out our current thinking on which other bands we will prioritise for 5G, and confirms our intention to start working on making available spectrum in the 66-71 GHz band.