US Tech Giants Oppose Jio, Vi’s 6GHz Spectrum Demand
Major US technology companies including Apple, Amazon, Meta, Cisco, HP, and Intel have jointly opposed Reliance Jio and Vodafone Idea’s demand for mobile spectrum allocation in the 6GHz band, arguing the band should be reserved entirely for Wi-Fi use.
Key Takeaways
- US tech giants want 6GHz band reserved for Wi-Fi, not mobile networks
- Government plans mixed use: 400MHz for auction, 500MHz for Wi-Fi
- Indian telcos push for spectrum auction while Airtel seeks delay
- Industry divided with Qualcomm supporting delay, COAI opposing Wi-Fi allocation
Technical Readiness Concerns
In their joint response to TRAI’s consultation paper, the US companies stated that the 6GHz band is not yet technically or commercially ready for mobile services. They recommended against setting auction deadlines for the 6425-6725 MHz and 7025-7125 MHz ranges, suggesting allocation decisions should wait until after WRC-27 conclusions.
The companies proposed that any unused portions of the upper 6GHz band should be temporarily opened for unlicensed use.
Government’s Spectrum Allocation Plan
The government has announced a three-part allocation strategy: 400 MHz of 6GHz spectrum ready for immediate auction, 300 MHz available by 2030, and 500 MHz delicensed for low-power Wi-Fi applications. The lower 6GHz band (5925-6425 MHz) has already been allocated for Wi-Fi use.
Reliance Jio has demanded the entire 1200 MHz available in the 6GHz band be included in upcoming auctions, while Vodafone Idea wants the immediately available 400 MHz put up for sale. Bharti Airtel, however, has requested auction delays citing unready devices and equipment.
Industry Divided on Allocation Approach
Qualcomm supports delaying the auction, arguing the upper 6GHz band is crucial for India’s mobile growth and future 6G networks. The chipmaker noted that countries like China and Brazil are considering this band for 6G and waiting for WRC-27 would help align with global standards.
However, the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) – representing Jio, Airtel and Vi – strongly opposes delicensing any part of the 6GHz band. COAI warned that unlicensed allocation would harm India’s digital future, reduce government revenue, and disadvantage Indian telecom operators against global tech platforms.
The association emphasized that licensed spectrum provides reliable performance and nationwide coverage essential for Digital Bharat initiatives and future 6G services like industrial automation and connected mobility.
