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India’s 6Ghz Spectrum Dilemma
Context:
The much-anticipated launch of the PlayStation 5 Pro (PS5 Pro) in India has hit a snag due to an ongoing dilemma over the allocation of the 6GHz spectrum.
- This issue has significant implications for the gaming community and highlights the complexities of spectrum management in the country.
Spectrum is a finite resource essential for wireless communication. Effective spectrum management is crucial to ensure that this resource is used efficiently and equitably. In India, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) are responsible for spectrum allocation and regulation.
WiFi Bands History:
- 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz: Wi-Fi technology primarily operates on two key frequency bands.
- 2.4GHz offers wider coverage but slower speeds, while 5GHz provides faster speeds but covers a shorter distance. In India, these frequencies were de-licensed for indoor and outdoor use starting in 2002.
- 6 GHz (WiFi 6E): In 2020, WiFi 6 introduced the use of both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands simultaneously for greater efficiency and better speeds. However, in 2021, Wi-Fi 6E was introduced, which added the 6GHz band to the mix, further boosting speed potential.
What is 6GHz Spectrum?
- The 6GHz band spans from 5,925MHz to 7,125MHz, significantly increasing theoretical maximum speeds to 9.6Gbps.
- Global Adoption: By 2021, several countries (e.g., Japan, Mexico, South Korea, Taiwan, UAE, U.K., U.S.) began de-licensing the 6GHz spectrum for WiFi use. However, Countries like India and China have yet to permit the use of the 6GHz spectrum for WiFi.
Current Status in India:
- The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) currently holds the 6GHz spectrum for satellite use, though it is unlikely to interfere with WiFi.
- Telecom operators are interested in using the 6GHz spectrum for 5G and 6G, while tech companies represented by the Broadband India Forum like Google, Meta, and Amazon advocate for its allocation for WiFi use, similar to the US.
- The Indian government may take cues from countries like Australia, which have opted to de-license half of the 6GHz spectrum while deliberating on the allocation of the remaining portion.
- International Developments: The World Radiocommunications Conference has extended the deadline for countries to decide on the use of the 6GHz spectrum until 2027.
Impacts:
- The 6GHz debate may not significantly impact consumer electronics. Devices like Apple and Samsung phones in India can still support 6GHz WiFi, but their WiFi features are programmed to avoid it due to regulatory restrictions.
- Sony could potentially release the PS5 Pro in India with modified WiFi hardware that avoids the 6GHz band until regulatory clarity is achieved.
WiFi 7 in India
- WiFi 7 technology does not depend solely on the 6GHz band to function. It improves speed and efficiency by using the available spectrum more effectively.
- WiFi 7 routers can be sold in India even without 6GHz support, offering faster wireless speeds than most home broadband plans in the country.
Implications:
- Technological Advancement: Delicensing the 6GHz band could significantly enhance WiFi capabilities and internet speeds in India.
- Economic Growth: Improved internet infrastructure can boost economic activities, especially in the digital economy.
- Global Competitiveness: Aligning with global standards can enhance India’s position in the global tech landscape.
