Spectrum Options and Allocations for 6G: A Regulatory and Standardization Review

Abstract

The upcoming sixth generation (6G) mobile communication system is expected to operate across a wide range of spectrum that includes not only the bands used by previous generations but also higher frequency bands such as millimeter wave (mmWave), which are currently assigned to fifth generation (5G) networks, terahertz (THz), and optical spectrum. By utilizing a broader range of frequencies, it will be possible to support 6G applications with faster data rates, higher capacity, and lower latency. However, the higher frequency bands pose unique challenges such as higher path loss, absorption loss, and engineering difficulties for antennas and radio frequency (RF) circuitry design, which require advanced technologies and innovative solutions. Given that the spectrum is a scarce resource, efficient management is crucial to ensure the most effective exploitation of frequency bands. The spectrum management has evolved over the years, with different approaches being used to assign and utilize frequency bands. In this paper, we provide a review of spectrum management approaches, including their use in awarding 5G spectrum, and explore their expected use in 6G. We then offer a brief overview of spectrum sharing and its role in enabling the efficient use of spectrum resources. The regulations, standardization, features, limitations, and potential use cases of higher frequency bands such as, mmWave, THz, and visible light (VL) are analyzed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the spectrum options available for the upcoming 6G technology.