UK wants mobile and Wi-Fi to share upper 6GHz spectrum

UK regulator Ofcom plans to open the upper 6GHz band to both mobile networks and Wi-Fi, instead of reserving it for just one technology. The proposal would allow licensed mobile operators and unlicensed Wi-Fi users to share the same spectrum, using technical controls to manage interference.

Ofcom argues this shared model could support future 5G and 6G services while also giving homes and businesses more capacity for high-speed Wi-Fi. The plan goes against calls from parts of the mobile industry to dedicate the band solely to mobile, and from Wi-Fi advocates who want it fully unlicensed. Ofcom is now consulting on the approach before making final decisions on how the upper 6GHz band will be used in the UK.