GSMA warns high spectrum prices could slow 6G investment

GSMA said at MWC 2026 that charging mobile operators too much for spectrum could harm the telecom sector’s ability to invest in future networks, including 6G. The comments were made during a discussion about the spectrum implications of 6G and the new network capabilities being presented at the Barcelona event in 2026.

The reported warning was that paying excessive amounts for spectrum would amount to “shooting ourselves in the foot.” Spectrum is the licensed radio frequency resource mobile network operators (MNOs) use to run cellular services, and its price affects how much capital operators can allocate to coverage, capacity, and new technology deployment.

The comments fit into a broader industry debate over how governments should price and assign spectrum as operators prepare for 5G expansion and future 6G development. Spectrum policy remains a central issue for the mobile industry because auction costs, licence conditions, and access to suitable frequency bands shape the pace of network investment and service rollout.