ATIS’ Next G Alliance (NGA) has announced the publication of a new whitepaper, the “Spectrum Needs for 6G”, which assesses 6G spectrum needs based on scenario-specific key performance indicators and application-specific technical performance requirements.
The evolution of commercial mobile broadband over its generations is characterized by a continued increase in the efficiency in the use of spectrum and in the amount of spectrum used to support novel and diverse wireless applications. At the current stage of the development of 6G, there exist uncertainties about the technical characteristics and requirements that 6G applications and systems will have when they become commercial. However, considering that decisions about the use of spectrum depend on multiple aspects and require time to be implemented, it is essential that a good understanding of the 6G spectrum needs to be reached and contribute to data-driven policy, regulatory decisions, and technical solutions.
This paper assesses 6G spectrum needs based on scenario-specific Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and application-specific technical performance requirements. The methodology established in the paper for estimating spectrum needs is based on the data rate requirements of 6G applications. Emphasis and focus are on North American context and needs. The variety of 6G applications considered in the white paper reflects the Next G Alliance’s collective efforts in establishing the 6G Roadmap, while the system’s technical performance and capabilities reflect North American realities. Both this document and its previously published companion document on potential spectrum bands for 6G are meant to establish global consensus on 6G spectrum needs from the North American perspective.
“Proactively understanding next G spectrum needs and planning for them is essential to U.S. leadership in critical and emerging technologies,” said NGA Managing Director, David Young. “Decisions about the use of spectrum depend on multiple aspects and require time to be implemented. This paper achieves an understanding of 6G spectrum needs so that these needs are considered in the development of data-driven policies, regulatory decisions and technical solutions.”
“Spectrum is the lifeblood for all commercial mobile broadband,” stated Andrew Thiessen, chair, NGA Spectrum Working Group. “Absent available spectrum, the ability for countries to continue to move towards ubiquitous connectivity is stymied. This document offers a comprehensive first take at what spectrum will be needed as 6G development begins in earnest.”
Click here to download the whitepaper.
