6GHz Spectrum

Source: This post on 6GHz Spectrum has been created based on the article “Why India’s 6Ghz spectrum dilemma is affecting PS5 Pro console launch in India?” published in The Hindu on 25th November 2024.

Why in news?

Recently, Sony launched the PlayStation 5 Pro in major global markets but excluded India. India’s unresolved 6GHz spectrum issue may limit the adoption of WiFi 6E and WiFi 7, potentially slowing advancements in wireless communication technologies.

About the 6GHz Spectrum

1. The 6GHz spectrum refers to the frequency band ranging from 5,925 MHz to 7,125 MHz.

2. It has gained global attention due to its potential to dramatically enhance wireless communication technologies, particularly WiFi and 5G networks.

3. The band offers a vast expanse of unlicensed spectrum that, if utilized efficiently, could provide faster speeds, reduced latency, and improved network performance.

The Role of 6GHz in WiFi

1. WiFi 6E, an extension of the WiFi 6 standard, was introduced to harness the benefits of the 6GHz spectrum.

2. This technology enables routers to operate in a less congested frequency band, offering significant advantages:

3. Higher Speeds: Theoretical maximum speeds can reach up to 9.6 Gbps.

4. Reduced Congestion: With more channels available, devices experience less interference and congestion compared to the crowded 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands.

5. Low Latency: Ideal for applications like gaming, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR).

The Status of 6GHz in India

India has yet to de-license the 6GHz spectrum for WiFi, primarily because the band is currently allocated to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for satellite communication.

1. Telecom Operators’ Interest: Telecom companies have expressed interest in using the 6GHz spectrum for 5G and 6G technologies, competing with tech companies advocating for its allocation to WiFi.

2. Government Consideration: India is exploring a balanced approach, possibly following Australia’s model of de-licensing a portion of the spectrum for WiFi while reserving the rest for other uses.

3. Countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, South Korea, Japan, and the UAE have de-licensed the 6GHz spectrum for WiFi use, paving the way for WiFi 6E and WiFi 7 technologies.

Implications of the 6GHz Spectrum in India: The delay in de-licensing the 6GHz spectrum has several consequences:

1. Technology Accessibility: Devices like the PlayStation 5 Pro that rely on advanced WiFi standards requiring 6GHz spectrum may face delayed launches or incompatibility in India.

2. Ecosystem Development: The absence of 6GHz may limit the adoption of WiFi 6E and WiFi 7, potentially slowing advancements in wireless communication technologies.

3. Consumer Choices: Despite the regulatory hurdles, devices sold in India can be programmed to operate without connecting to the 6GHz band, as seen with Apple and Samsung smartphones.

UPSC Syllabus: Indian economy