While vendors typically agree that both existing and new spectrum bands are needed to support 6G, their positions vary on unlicensed spectrum policies – particularly as they relate to 6 GHz spectrum, including hybrid sharing of the upper 6 GHz band. Vendors are also at odds over whether dedicated spectrum… Read more...

Qualcomm argues that additional spectrum for both exclusively licensed 5G and 6G operations and unlicensed use cases is needed to support growing demands and generational mobile technology advances. The company also recognises that spectrum access will involve increasingly dynamic and intensive spectrum sharing due to the shrinking supply of greenfield… Read more...

While all of the vendors profiled in 2024 recognise the continued importance of both low-band and mmWave spectrum for both 5G and 6G, their clear focus is repurposing existing low mid-band spectrum and the release of new licensed spectrum in frequency ranges above 7 GHz. The greatest disparity in vendor… Read more...

Qualcomm argues that fully cleared, exclusively licensed spectrum remains the top priority for the wireless industry to support the continued rapid rollout of 5G and 6G. At the same time, Qualcomm considers that unlicensed spectrum plays an important role in Wi-Fi operations in homes and businesses. It stresses the need… Read more...

As we near WRC-23, vendor positions on IMT and mobile-related Agenda Items vary – particularly in relation to the 6 GHz band and bands identified for IMT studies and consideration at WRC-23. As vendors contemplate 6G, they are also laying out future spectrum priorities. Meanwhile, Apple, Qualcomm and Samsung have… Read more...

Qualcomm regards 5G and Wi-Fi networks as complementary, requiring additional spectrum – both licensed and unlicensed. It stresses the need for additional lower mid-band spectrum for mobile services, while it supports the unlicensed use of the entire 6 GHz band. In January 2023, Qualcomm announced its plans to move into… Read more...

Despite the lack of clarity surrounding mmWave use cases and unproven business models, regulators and industry are examining a range of new approaches to mmWave spectrum sharing. Three case studies based on the work of Ofcom in the UK, Canada’s ISED and Qualcomm inform this research note, which outlines a… Read more...

In 2022, communications vendors continue to lobby for licensed spectrum for 5G and indeed, 6G, albeit with nuances in their prioritisation of bands. The greatest divergence of vendor positions is in relation to the licensing status of 6 GHz spectrum. Vendors’ views on dedicated spectrum for IoT/private networks also vary. Read more...

Qualcomm views the 700 MHz, 2.6 GHz, 3.5 GHz, 3.8-4.2 GHz and 26 GHz bands as key 5G bands, and sees L-band, 4.8 GHz, 40 GHz, 47.2-48.2 GHz and 66-71 GHz additional bands for the technology. Qualcomm regards 5G and Wi-Fi networks as complementary, requiring both licensed and unlicensed spectrum… Read more...

Vendors generally agree that spectrum in the 3 GHz range is prime 5G spectrum, with varying views on the service rules that apply to different 3 GHz sub-bands. There is strong divergence in vendor’s views on the 5925 - 7125 MHz range in terms of its licensing status and technical… Read more...