India's Spectrum Plan Sidesteps 6GHz WiFi, Big Tech Faces Delay

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AuthorRiya Kapoor|Published at:
India's Spectrum Plan Sidesteps 6GHz WiFi, Big Tech Faces Delay
Overview

India's National Frequency Allocation Plan 2025, finalized December 30, omits license-free 6GHz spectrum for WiFi. This decision disappoints major technology firms like Meta and Google, potentially slowing the rollout of next-generation WiFi 6E and WiFi 7 technologies, despite prior government indications favoring its delicensing. The move delays critical advancements needed for immersive technologies and enhanced digital services.

Spectrum Rollout Stalls for Next-Gen WiFi

India's latest National Frequency Allocation Plan (NFAP) 2025 has conspicuously excluded the 6GHz band from license-free use. Finalized on December 30, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) plan makes no provision for the spectrum crucial to unlocking the full potential of Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 technologies. This omission directly impacts the anticipated widespread adoption of high-speed wireless connectivity for consumers and businesses.

Big Tech's Disappointment

Major technology players, including Meta Platforms, Google, and Qualcomm, represented by the Broadband India Forum, expressed strong disappointment. They argue that the absence of the lower 6GHz band (5925–6425 MHz) from license-free access is a clear policy reversal. T.V. Ramachandran, president of the Broadband India Forum, stated that such inconsistency creates avoidable uncertainty and risks hindering innovation.

Economic Projections vs. Reality

Industry estimates highlight the potential economic upside. Meta previously suggested that delicensing 500 MHz of the 6GHz band could generate $3 trillion for India over a decade. In contrast, auctioning the upper 700 MHz band to telecom operators was projected to yield $254 billion. The current decision suggests a prioritization that diverges from these growth forecasts.

Regulatory Hurdles and Telco Demands

Reasons for the delay are complex. Following initial draft proposals to delicense the band, telecom operator Reliance Jio Infocomm reportedly requested higher-powered signals for outdoor devices. Concerns over potential interference with satellite and broadcasting networks prompted the government to form a committee for further study, pushing back the delicensing timeline. Meanwhile, industry bodies like the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) continue to advocate for the allocation of larger spectrum blocks to telcos to meet future data demands for 5G and 6G services.

Global Adoption Stalled in India

Globally, 96 countries have already enabled the 6GHz spectrum for WiFi, with nations like the U.S., South Korea, and Canada permitting full access. India's decision places it outside this growing consensus, potentially isolating its device ecosystem and delaying the benefits of advanced wireless communication.

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