India’s spectrum policy dilemma: India has taken a significant stride in its digital transformation journey by delicensing 500 MHz of the 6 GHz spectrum band (specifically from 5925 MHz to 6425 MHz) for indoor use. This move, aimed at accelerating next-generation Wi-Fi adoption, will enable the deployment of Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 technologies, which are significantly faster and more efficient than current Wi-Fi standards.
The decision reflects the government’s broader strategy of opening up new frontiers in communication technology—following earlier initiatives that included expanding satellite broadband access and easing foreign direct investment into telecom infrastructure.
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Boost for tech giants and consumer devices
The delicensing is particularly welcomed by tech companies such as Apple, Meta, and Sony. These firms had actively advocated for the release of the 6 GHz band, citing its critical role in supporting high-bandwidth applications such as virtual reality headsets, gaming consoles like the PlayStation Pro, and the broader Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem.
For Indian consumers, this means faster indoor internet speeds, smoother video calls, lower latency in online gaming, and seamless 4K/8K video streaming—provided they use compatible low-power routers. However, the spectrum is restricted to indoor applications and cannot be used in vehicles, drones, or outdoor settings.
Spectrum policy, Wi-Fi and telecos’ needs
The allocation of only 500 MHz from the total 1200 MHz available in the 6 GHz band has reignited a long-standing debate between telecom operators and technology companies. While companies like Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea have been lobbying for the entire 6 GHz band to be licensed for mobile telecommunication—particularly for upcoming 5G and 6G services—tech firms argue for unlicensed, free-to-use access to enhance Wi-Fi capabilities.
This policy decision places India alongside countries like Japan, Australia, and Singapore, which have also chosen to release only a portion of the 6 GHz band for unlicensed use. In contrast, the United States and Canada have gone further by opening the full 1200 MHz band for unlicensed access. Countries such as Mexico and Chile are currently deliberating or revising their positions on the issue.
The DoT has released draft rules for public consultation, with feedback invited until June 15, 2025. Additionally, TRAI has recommended a five-year administrative allocation of satellite spectrum, extendable by two years, with a fee structure pegged at 4% of adjusted gross revenue. These policy shifts reflect India’s commitment to balancing the needs of telecom operators and technology companies, ensuring robust digital infrastructure while promoting equitable access and innovation.
Opportunities and limitations for broader digital access
Industry associations like the Broadband India Forum and the ITU-APT Foundation of India have praised the government’s move, calling it a strong foundation for future digital expansion. They also highlight its potential benefits for rural broadband, telemedicine, smart classrooms, and community-level digital services.
However, they caution that the current 500 MHz allocation may not suffice in the long term. BIF has urged the government to consider delicensing an additional 160 MHz to unlock the full potential of next-generation connectivity.
The move could also have commercial implications. For instance, Sony had previously delayed the India launch of the PlayStation 5 Pro due to wireless compatibility concerns. With the new spectrum delicensing, the company is now expected to proceed with the product rollout in the country.
As the global race for digital infrastructure intensifies, India finds itself at a crucial juncture. The partial delicensing of the 6 GHz band is a welcome start, but the bigger challenge lies ahead: balancing spectrum needs between licensed telecom services for nationwide 5G/6G rollout and unlicensed spectrum for fast, reliable Wi-Fi that can power homes, businesses, and public institutions.