GSMA outlines spectrum needs for 6G and continued 5G investment

The GSMA says spectrum, standards and investment decisions made now will shape the capacity and reach of 6G networks in the 2030s. More than 5 billion 6G connections are expected by 2040, while 6G is currently projected to overtake 5G around 2035–2037.

The transition will take place alongside 5G. The GSMA estimates there are around 350 5G networks today; 5G launched in 2018, and its connections are expected to surpass 4G later this decade. The organization says continued investment in 5G standalone and 5G-Advanced, as well as spectrum, will be needed as traffic grows.

For 6G, the GSMA identifies access to spectrum that can support 200–400 MHz channels, globally agreed standards through 3GPP, and national policies that encourage network investment. It says around 2–2.5 GHz of mid-band spectrum per market may be needed on average by 2035–2040, rising to around 2.4–3.3 GHz in markets with higher demand. The source says this spectrum need not be released all at once, but argues that a clear roadmap would help operators plan.

The article also says spectrum policy must balance capacity in high-demand areas with broad coverage. It cites an estimate that cities containing more than 50% of the world’s urban population could face capacity constraints by 2030 if spectrum remains at today’s levels. The article was produced as part of TechRadar Pro.