Ofcom has taken a major step toward reshaping how wireless networks operate in the UK, unveiling proposals that would allow mobile networks and Wi-Fi services to share parts of the same radio spectrum for the first time. The move is designed to unlock significant benefits for households, businesses and the wider UK economy by increasing network capacity and supporting next-generation digital services.
Breaking the traditional spectrum divide
Until now, mobile services and Wi-Fi have been assigned separate sections of radio spectrum to prevent interference. Ofcom’s new proposals challenge this long-standing approach by enabling both technologies to operate within the upper 6 GHz band, marking a first for Europe.
Under the plan, the upper 6 GHz band would be divided into different portions, with Wi-Fi prioritised in one part and mobile services in another. Clear technical conditions and strict controls would be applied to ensure that the two technologies can coexist without causing harmful interference.
If implemented, the UK would become the first European country to formally commit to this type of spectrum sharing, reinforcing its position as a leader in spectrum policy and wireless innovation.
Supporting rising demand for connectivity
The proposals come as demand for wireless capacity accelerates. The UK’s full-fibre broadband rollout is progressing rapidly, but broadband providers and businesses are facing increasing pressure to secure sufficient airwaves for advanced Wi-Fi services. At the same time, mobile operators are struggling to meet demand in high-traffic locations such as train stations, stadiums and busy high streets, where thousands of users are connected simultaneously.
By allowing mobile and Wi-Fi services to share the upper 6 GHz band, Ofcom aims to deliver a substantial increase in capacity for both technologies. This would support better in-home and business Wi-Fi, improve mobile performance in crowded areas, and enable data-intensive applications such as virtual and augmented reality, artificial intelligence and future 6G services.
Economic and innovation benefits
Ofcom said the spectrum-sharing approach could deliver wide-ranging economic benefits by helping both the mobile and broadband sectors manage growing traffic volumes. Improved network performance would support productivity across industry, encourage investment in digital infrastructure and create new opportunities for innovation.
In the longer term, better integration between mobile and Wi-Fi technologies is expected. For example, Wi-Fi systems could be designed to sense the presence of nearby mobile networks and adapt automatically, improving overall service quality for users.
Phased approach for the upper 6 GHz band
For the upper part of the 6 GHz band, covering frequencies from 6425 MHz to 7125 MHz, Ofcom has proposed a two-phase rollout:
- Phase 1: Allow low-power indoor Wi-Fi to operate across the entire upper 6 GHz band as quickly as possible, ideally before the end of 2025.
- Phase 2: Authorise mobile services to use the band at a later stage, subject to the outcome of European-level discussions on harmonising spectrum use, which are expected to conclude by 2027.
European harmonisation is seen as critical to giving manufacturers, network operators and users the confidence to invest in equipment and services that support the 6 GHz band across the continent.
Expanded use of the lower 6 GHz band
Alongside the upper 6 GHz proposals, Ofcom has also announced changes to how the lower 6 GHz band, spanning 5925 MHz to 6425 MHz, can be used. These frequencies are currently limited to low-power indoor Wi-Fi. Ofcom now plans to allow higher-power and outdoor Wi-Fi use as well.
This change would bring high-quality Wi-Fi connectivity to environments such as sports stadiums, factories, hospitals, railway stations, universities and large campuses. It could also improve broadband services in rural areas.
To protect existing users of the band from interference, outdoor and higher-power Wi-Fi would be managed through Automated Frequency Coordination databases. These systems automatically communicate with Wi-Fi equipment to ensure transmissions avoid conflicting with other services. Ofcom has opened a consultation on how these databases should be registered and operated effectively.
Consultation timelines
Ofcom is inviting feedback on its spectrum-sharing proposals and the use of Automated Frequency Coordination systems. Responses to the latest consultations are welcomed by 20 March 2026, while an earlier consultation on the broader upper and lower 6 GHz framework is open until 8 May 2025.
Industry leadership and future readiness
David Willis, Ofcom’s Group Director for Spectrum, said the announcements reaffirm the UK’s leadership in making the most of its airwaves. He noted that sharing the upper 6 GHz band would benefit both homes and businesses by delivering stronger Wi-Fi and mobile networks that are ready for future demands, while expanded use of the lower 6 GHz band would further enhance broadband services nationwide.
BABURAJAN KIZHAKEDATH
