Ofcom has proposed the next steps in plans that would see mobile masts and Wi-Fi routers in different locations use parts of the same frequency band to transmit their signals for the first time.
Historically, mobile and Wi-Fi services have had to use different parts of the radio spectrum – the wavelengths used for wireless technology – to avoid interference.
Ofcom’s proposals would make the UK the first country in Europe to commit to sharing radio spectrum frequencies – specifically the ‘upper 6 GHz band’ – between these two different technologies.
Ofcom’s approach would work by dividing up the upper 6 GHz band, with Wi-Fi prioritised in one part and mobile in the other, and technical conditions and controls attached.
It comes as the UK’s full-fibre rollout continues at speed, with broadband companies and businesses struggling to keep up with the demand for airwaves that can be used for Wi-Fi in a time where connectivity is crucial.
Mobile companies also face challenges, particularly in busy places like train stations or stadiums where large crowds of people are all using their phone.
“Sharing upper 6 GHz would be a win for businesses and homes across the country who want both better Wi-Fi and mobile networks that are fit for the future,” says David Willis, group director for spectrum at Ofcom.
“Our plans open the doors to further economic growth and investment, while supporting the delivery of crucial innovations like 6G in the future.”
In a boost for the economy, this new spectrum-sharing approach would provide a significant increase in capacity for both mobile and Wi-Fi services. This would support the broadband sector to provide advanced Wi-Fi to businesses, industry and homes.
It would also help mobile companies keep up with demand in busy locations and support data-hungry technologies like virtual reality and AI.
By helping both the mobile and broadband sectors to enhance their services and cope with the increase in traffic volumes, it is hoped the proposals could create further opportunities for innovation, growth and investment.
