EC harmonises 26 GHz for 5G deployment
May 16, 2019
The European Commission has adopted the Implementing Decision to harmonise the 26 GHz frequency band for wireless networks, which it says is a big leap towards the deployment of 5G across Europe.
The decision finalises the EU-wide coordination of all three pioneer bands (700 MHz, 3.6 GHz and 26 GHz) needed for 5G rollout in the Member States. The harmonisation of radio spectrum waves are the basis for cross-border wireless communication services and it sets common technical conditions for use of these bands.
In particular, the availability of the 26 GHz band will help the deployment of innovative services such as high-definition video communication, as well as virtual and augmented reality. The harmonisation of the 26 GHz band across Europe must be completed in all Member States by the end of March 2020 while effective use of at least 1 GHz of this band will follow by the end of 2020 the latest.
5G will be rolled out first in major cities and along important transport paths, as well as industrial sites. Better spectrum coordination together with the implementation of the European Electronic Communications Code, will help to meet future connectivity needs of the European digital economy and society.