In the coming years, we will eventually see 5G being replaced with 6G. The technology is currently being developed, but the question is, will carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon have what it takes to support it? Well, if they do, these carriers will need to step up their game because, according to a GSMA report, 6G is going to require more spectrum than ever.
Report claims 6G will require three times more spectrum
But wait, we’ve managed with 3G, 4G, and 5G, why would 6G require three times more spectrum? This is because current mobile connectivity standards are typically used for mobile devices, like our phones and tablets. However, as this technology advances, its use can be expanded beyond mobile.
In fact, to a certain extent, 5G is being used for non-mobile purposes. It is expected that with 6G, we will see it being used more with AI, extended reality devices, and more. As a result, it will need more spectrum.
According to John Giusti, Chief Regulatory Officer over at GSMA, “This study shows that the 6G era will require three times more mid-band spectrum than is available today. Satisfying these spectrum requirements will support robust and sustainable connectivity, deliver digital ambitions, and help economies grow. I hope this report provides useful insights to governments as they strive to meet the connectivity needs of their citizens in the coming decade.”
What will we need to fully support 6G?
Based on GSMA’s report, it is expected that by 2040, global mobile traffic is expected to reach 3,900 exabytes per month. This equates to roughly 140-360GB per mobile connection per month. That’s a lot of data being transferred, and if carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon want to support it, GSMA recommends that 2GHz mid-band spectrum is needed by 2030 to avoid congestion.
As it stands, most countries today have around 1GHz of mid-band spectrum dedicated to mobile use. Therefore, GSMA says an additional 1-3GHz may be required in order to meet the demand in the era of 6G. The report says that this number could be higher for higher-demand countries, going from 2.5-4GHz.
We’re not sure if our carriers today have what it takes to support the 6G era. Hopefully, this GSMA report will bring it to their attention, and we’ll have a nice and smooth transition to 6G.
