Statement: Mobile phone repeaters - Changes to the Wireless Telegraphy Regulations 2022

Statement published: 8 February 2024

In October 2023 we published a consultation proposing to remove the requirement for 4G repeaters to also repeat 2G/3G signals.

At the same time, we proposed to update the technical requirements for in-vehicle mobile repeaters to enable them to amplify some 5G signals, reflecting provisions already in place for static indoor repeaters.

The consultation included formal statutory notice of our intention to make new regulations under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006 (the ‘WTA’) to reflect these proposals, subject to consideration of stakeholder responses.

We have decided to:

• Remove the requirement for indoor repeaters that boost a 4G signal to also carry a 2G and/or 3G signal or frequency in order to be licence-exempt. This will allow the installation and use of 4G-only repeaters, subject to compliance with the remaining technical conditions included in the licence exemption regulations.
• Update the 2022 Regulations and associated Interface Requirements to enable in-vehicle mobile repeaters to amplify signals in the 700 MHz band, and to make them technology neutral. This enables them to repeat 5G signals in the bands included in the Interface Requirement.
• To implement these changes, we have made new regulations under the WTA to amend the 2022 Regulations, and will update our accompanying Interface Requirements. These changes will come into force on 29 February 2024