Both 3GPP and the ITU are progressing agendas to identify spectrum for satellites and other non-terrestrial networks. 3GPP Release 19 anticipates adding spectrum in the Ku-band, while WRC-27 will consider several new mobile satellite service ranges, including spectrum for satellite direct-to-device connectivity. Read more...

6G IMT-2030 networks will use multiple frequency bands—existing terrestrial bands, repurposed bands, and spectrum in new bands. This Research Note examines the current state of 6G IMT spectrum identifications and leading candidate bands for future use. A complementary Note looks at the status of the spectrum targeted for use by… Read more...

3GPP and the ITU are moving forward with standardisation work towards 6G across both terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks and ultimately the full integration of the two. 3GPP 6G normative standards are expected in Release 21, developed in the 2027 to 2029 timeframe, with the ITU set to establish formal 6G… Read more...

Regional and national 6G roadmaps are seeking to align with the ITU’s IMT-2030 (6G) framework and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, along with standards developments as they progress in 3GPP. In 2024, national agendas are moving from concepts and visions to more concrete and directional strategies. While many of… Read more...

Since PolicyTracker published its first 6G Dossier in 2021, there has been significant progress in the framing of the 6G future and the setting of more meaningful directional targets and milestones. 6G plans are becoming more defined across global, regional and national policy roadmaps, standards developments, spectrum targets and R&D… Read more...

Regulators opting for cashless auction elements seek to achieve connectivity goals in addition to efficient spectrum assignment. Read more...

China's Qianfan (Thousand Sails) has launched the first satellites in its low-earth-orbit constellation and has been added to PolicyTracker’s LEO Tracker as a significant new player. Read more...

Legacy frequency bands are starting to be repurposed for 5G as well as LTE, as operators shut down their 2G and 3G networks Read more...

As 2G and 3G subscriber numbers decline, many operators worldwide are winding down their legacy networks and refarming the spectrum for LTE and 5G. Some operators have already phased out both 2G and 3G and others are doing so, but legacy networks will continue in use in some countries beyond… Read more...

There is continued growing momentum in the assignment of spectrum for private networks, with 53 nations in all regions of the world now actively planning and implementing policies for localised spectrum use across an array of spectrum bands. Read more...