5G verticals

This year we have published a six-section “Spectrum 101” that sets out the fundamentals of modern spectrum management. This week we turn out attention to 5G verticals - the idea that the next generation of mobile networks will focus on industrial applications, rather than the mass consumer market. This widespread expectation, we argue, is driven by two factors: the new capabilities that 5G will bring, and the flimsy business case for consumer 5G. But how many industries will adopt the technology, and what this means for spectrum management, remain contested. There is a range of views on how best to make frequencies available for industry. At one end you can issue exclusive-access spectrum licences for a localised area, and at the other regulators can auction the spectrum to the mobile network operators and rely on them to provide these services. As always, we encourage readers to join the debate. The PolicyTracker Spectrum 101: 5G verticals