FEATURE: MOBILE
• This compromise is now influencing wider Latin American policy
4. Europe & UK: Still deciding
• EU: Lower 6 GHz for unlicensed use, upper band under consultation until 2026
• UK: Exploring a‘ third way’ – shared or phased access models
5. India: Industry Divided
• Draft rules propose de-licensing the lower 6 GHz for Wi-Fi
• Mobile operators push for full band licensing
• Split views even within industry, with Reliance Jio backing Wi-Fi expansion
Looking ahead: 6G and beyond
The GSMA calls the 6 GHz band‘ the bridge to 6G’. By the early 2030s, 6G will require ultra-wide channels( 200 – 400 MHz) to deliver next-generation services:
• Immersive AR / VR / XR experiences
• AI-driven automation in factories and smart cities
• Autonomous mobility systems in logistics and transport
• Holographic communications and ultra-realistic telepresence
Without upper 6 GHz licensing, Latin America risks being locked out of the 6G economy – falling behind in productivity, competitiveness and digital inclusion.
A defining choice for regulators
Where LATAM fits in
Latin America is at a spectrum crossroads. The GSMA’ s 6 GHz in LATAM report makes a strong evidence-based case:
Latin America, led by Brazil, is emerging as the global reference case for a balanced split:
• Lower band → Wi-Fi
• Upper band → Licensed mobile
This ensures innovation on both sides without sacrificing the economic and social benefits of mobile broadband
• Wi-Fi demand can be met with existing unlicensed bands and better efficiency
• Mobile networks cannot cope without new spectrum, particularly in the upper 6 GHz
• Licensed IMT in upper 6 GHz delivers 7 × more economic value, bridging the digital divide and fueling regional growth
GSMA says the decision is one of vision. By harmonising policies across the region and prioritising licensed mobile in the upper 6 GHz, Latin America can unlock the full promise of 5G today and 6G tomorrow, the report concludes. p
Policy checklist for LATAM governments
Latin America, led by Brazil, is emerging as the global reference case for a balanced split:
• Allocate lower 6 GHz to unlicensed use → Support Wi-Fi 6E / 7 innovation
• License upper 6 GHz for IMT → Ensure 5G / 6G capacity and rural inclusion
• Harmonise regionally → Scale benefits across borders
• Prioritise efficiency → Maximise value per MHz for both Wi-Fi and mobile
• Think long-term → 6 GHz is not just about 5G – it is the gateway to 6G www. intelligentcio. com INTELLIGENTCIO LATAM 27