Spectrum

— Proactively addressing the spectrum issues of a Next G world.

With the build-out of 5G, spectrum use and demand is already increasing and will grow even more with 6G. The Spectrum WG is working to better understand and influence spectrum access, management, policy recommendations, standards, and long- term needs in this area. The work will identify potential spectrum in North America and worldwide and address opportunities related to shared spectrum alternatives.

The Spectrum WG’s white paper, 6G Spectrum Considerations, details the Next G Alliance’s efforts in support of a data-driven process for assessing potential 6G suitable spectrum bands based on applications and technology requirements. This initial paper focuses on a summary status of current band usage and characteristics for existing allocations in Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. for 3G/4G/5G spectrum and a study of suitable bands for 6G. The group is currently working on a companion paper, with expected publication in early 2024, that aims to establish the methodology and derive 6G spectrum needs based on application-specific key performance indicators (KPIs) and technical performance requirements (TPRs).