In an era of rapidly advancing technology, the deployment of future mobile network infrastructures requires a comprehensive roadmap for new spectrum allocation. With the imminent rollout of 5G-Advanced and the anticipation of 6G networks by 2028, industry leaders are emphasizing the criticality of spectrum planning to ensure successful implementation and sustained technological leadership. In this article, we explore the importance of balancing licensed and unlicensed spectrum, the significance of the upper mid-band spectrum, the integration of spectrum planning in the US National Spectrum Strategy, and the impact of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in defining spectrum needs.
Balancing licensed and unlicensed spectrum
Finding the right balance between licensed and unlicensed spectrum is essential for optimizing mobile networks. The mobile industry recognizes the significance of the upper mid-band spectrum, which ranges from 7.125 to 15.35 GHz. This particular range offers increased capacity and allows the industry to leverage existing infrastructure for enhanced performance. By strategically allocating spectrum within this range, mobile operators can unlock the potential for higher data speeds and improved network coverage.
Spectrum and the US National Spectrum Strategy
The allocation of new spectrum plays a pivotal role in the US National Spectrum Strategy. Recognizing the importance of rapid commercialization and sustained technological leadership, industry stakeholders emphasize the need to identify and release new spectrum for mobile communications. This strategy enables the United States to maintain its position as a global leader in technology and ensures the continued growth of the economy. By aligning spectrum planning with the national strategy, policymakers and regulators can create an environment conducive to innovation and industry development.
Releasing more licensed spectrum
5G Americas, an industry association representing mobile network operators and technology companies, stresses the criticality of releasing more licensed spectrum for the wireless industry. Chris Pearson, the president of 5G Americas, highlights the direct correlation between increased access to licensed spectrum and U.S. leadership in technology, mobile communications, and the overall economy. Releasing more licensed spectrum offers mobile operators the opportunity to expand their networks, support new applications, and pave the way for groundbreaking technologies.
Industry roadmap for spectrum
To effectively deploy future networks and drive the emergence of groundbreaking technologies, an industry roadmap for spectrum allocation is essential. Having a clear roadmap ensures that the wireless industry can plan and allocate resources efficiently. It provides a framework for collaboration between different stakeholders, such as network operators, regulators, and technology companies. By aligning their efforts and resources, industry players can expedite the deployment of new networks, promote innovation, and support the needs of various applications.
Support for spectrum ranges and bands
The work group co-leader at 5G Americas, Aleksandar Damnjanovic, emphasizes the association’s support for the 7.125 to 15.35 GHz spectrum range, with a particular focus on frequencies below 10 GHz. This range strikes a balance between capacity and coverage, making it ideal for licensed mobile operations. Accessing these frequencies may require exploring relocation and sharing strategies. Additionally, millimeter-wave (mmWave) bands have gained importance for deployments in dense areas, such as urban cores, transportation depots, and busy streets. Furthermore, mmWave bands facilitate fixed wireless access deployments. Sub-THz bands, with their vast bandwidths, hold promise for specialized use cases.
ITU’s impact on spectrum needs
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) plays a crucial role in defining the spectrum needs for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT)-2030. The ITU has codified various usage scenarios that serve as the basis for spectrum requirements. These scenarios highlight the necessity for high data rates and wide-area coverage, enabling applications such as immersive experiences, next-generation healthcare monitoring, human-machine interfaces, and integrated communication and sensing. By adhering to the spectrum needs outlined by the ITU, industry stakeholders can strategically plan and allocate resources for future applications and services.
Application examples
Access to more spectrum is crucial for unlocking the potential of various applications. Extended reality (XR) experiences, such as virtual reality and augmented reality, require substantial bandwidth and low latency to provide immersive interactions. Connected cars heavily rely on reliable and high-speed mobile networks for advanced driver assistance systems, vehicle-to-vehicle communication, and autonomous driving. The concept of the metaverse, a virtual shared space combining physical and virtual reality, introduces new connectivity demands that can only be met with ample spectrum allocation. It is imperative for the wireless industry to have access to more spectrum to support these applications and ensure continued innovation in the digital era.
Developing a comprehensive roadmap for spectrum allocation is a fundamental step towards the successful deployment of future mobile networks. Balancing licensed and unlicensed spectrum, identifying new spectrum, and aligning with national strategies are essential to foster innovation, drive technological advancements, and maintain leadership in the global market. The industry must collaborate and share expertise to leverage the potential of the upper mid-band spectrum, explore relocation and sharing strategies, and consider the role of mmWave and Sub-THz bands. As the needs of applications evolve, adhering to the spectrum requirements outlined by the ITU ensures that networks cater to the demands of high data rates, wide-area coverage, and emerging use cases. Through a collective effort, the wireless industry can unlock the full potential of spectrum allocation and shape the future of connectivity.