The World Radiocommunication Conference 2023 (WRC-23), recently held in Dubai, has brought favorable spectrum decisions for the global community of mobile operators, according to Ross Bateson, Spectrum Director at GSMA, the organization representing the telecommunications industry. While these decisions represent a significant step towards better broadband coverage worldwide, there is still much work to be done.
One of the important outcomes of WRC-23 was the allocation of the upper frequency range of the 6 GHz band for licensed 5G broadband internet services. Bateson emphasized the importance of this decision, stating that it provides a stimulus for the development of the ecosystem, especially for the deployment of 5G-Advanced technology in the coming years.
Furthermore, progress has been made in allocating the free frequency range of 3.5 GHz in the Americas, EMEA, and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) regions. However, it was noted that the Asia-Pacific region did not include the allocation of this band. The identification of free frequencies for mobile services has also brought some benefits, but there is still a lack of progress in many African markets where free frequency is crucial for providing coverage in rural areas.
Bateson stressed the importance of addressing digital inequalities in Africa, especially in rural areas. The allocation of free frequencies is hindered by digital television service providers, although some major markets in Africa, such as Nigeria, Egypt, Tanzania, Senegal, and Gambia, are already planning to use the 600 MHz band for mobile services.
For instance, Nigeria is exploring an innovative approach called reverse auction, where operators promise 5G coverage using the 600 MHz band instead of paying high spectrum fees. This mechanism has the potential to lead to rapid development of 5G service coverage in rural areas of Nigeria.
Looking ahead, Bateson emphasized that the decisions of WRC-23 provide the necessary tools to meet the growing data needs, but proper adjustment of assignment mechanisms, whether through auctions or alternative methods, is necessary. Ensuring timely access, reasonable terms, and prices is crucial to fulfill the promise of faster download speeds, better connectivity, and reduced carbon dioxide emissions.
In conclusion, the results of the WRC-23 conference lay the foundations for improving broadband coverage. However, further action is necessary in order to effectively allocate spectrum, alleviate digital divides, and create a brighter future for global connectivity.
The source of the article is from the blog yanoticias.es