Ofcom Launches Consultation on 6GHz Spectrum Sharing

Key Takeaways

• Ofcom proposes 88 high‑density zones for mobile 6 GHz use
• Wi‑Fi retains priority in 6425‑6585 MHz; mobile in 6585‑7125 MHz
• Fixed‑link licences cleared; costs fall on existing licencees
• Wireless‑camera band 7110‑7125 MHz to be removed within five years
• Consultation ends 6 July 2026; decisions due later this year

Pulse Analysis

The UK’s 6 GHz band has long been a battleground between unlicensed Wi‑Fi and licensed mobile operators. By splitting the spectrum—granting Wi‑Fi priority in the lower 160 MHz and mobile priority in the upper 550 MHz—Ofcom aims to maximise spectral efficiency while preserving the rapid growth of indoor broadband. This dual‑use model mirrors similar initiatives in the United States and Europe, where regulators are experimenting with shared‑access frameworks to accelerate 5G roll‑outs and prepare for future 6G deployments. The approach also addresses concerns about spectrum scarcity as data traffic continues to surge.

Ofcom’s latest consultation narrows the mobile‑focused portion to 88 high‑density zones, largely aligned with existing mmWave footprints. By concentrating mobile use where demand is strongest, the regulator hopes to avoid under‑utilised spectrum and reduce interference with incumbent services such as fixed‑link backhaul, wireless‑camera (PMSE) operations, and radio astronomy. The agency proposes that affected fixed‑link operators—about 180 links across 20 licencees, including BT and community broadband firms—bear relocation costs, while new fixed‑link licences will be barred in these zones. Such a targeted licensing model is expected to streamline coordination and reduce administrative overhead for both regulators and operators.

The outcome of the consultation will shape the UK’s path toward a more flexible spectrum regime. If approved, mobile operators could unlock additional capacity for dense urban 5G deployments, potentially narrowing the performance gap with rival European markets. At the same time, Wi‑Fi ecosystems will retain a protected slice, preserving the low‑latency connectivity essential for enterprise IoT and home broadband. Stakeholders are watching the July 6 deadline closely, as the final rules will set precedents for future sharing arrangements across other bands such as 3.5 GHz and 28 GHz. Ultimately, the policy could influence investment decisions, prompting operators to accelerate network densification and new service rollouts.