Jio Seeks DoT Nod to Use 26 GHz 5G Spectrum for WiFi Services: Report

Reliance Jio has approached the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) seeking approval to deploy its 26 GHz 5G spectrum for WiFi-based broadband services in a move that could redefine spectrum usage strategy in India. The request has been made under Clause 2.3 of the Notice Inviting Application (NIA) for the July 2022 spectrum auction, which requires operators to obtain prior permission before repurposing mobile spectrum for alternative services, Financial Express reported, citing officials.

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Also Read: Centre Notifies Draft Rules to Delicense Lower 6 GHz Band for Wi-Fi Use

Request Under Clause 2.3 of NIA

As per the clause, such applications must be submitted at least six months ahead of deployment for the new use case. DoT officials reportedly confirmed that the request is under consideration.

26 GHz Remains Underutilised

The 26 GHz band, part of the millimetre-wave (mmWave) spectrum earmarked for ultra-high-speed 5G services, has seen limited commercial uptake due to ecosystem constraints, including lack of widespread device support.

The development follows Adani Group’s recent exit from the 26 GHz band, after it sold its 400 MHz holding to Bharti Airtel due to the absence of a viable commercial use case. This underscores the evolving nature of mmWave spectrum utility as the 5G device and application ecosystem remains in a nascent stage.

Currently, Indian telecom operators primarily use the 5 GHz band for deploying WiFi-based broadband, while the 3,300 MHz (C-Band) and 26 GHz bands are designated for 5G mobile services. Jio previously stated that it is using the 26 GHz band for fixed wireless access (FWA) services.

Hybrid Deployment Model in Focus

Jio’s proposal suggests a hybrid deployment model combining the broader coverage of the 5 GHz band with the high-capacity performance of 26 GHz, particularly suited for dense urban environments.

Officials cited in the report said Jio may be aiming to adopt a hybrid deployment strategy by combining the wide coverage of the 5 GHz band with the ultra-high-speed capacity of 26 GHz in dense urban zones. This approach could allow the operator to deliver targeted high-speed broadband services without relying entirely on traditional mobile 5G networks.