On 22 May, Senior Managing Director Richard Marsden will moderate a panel discussion titled “Spectrum Allocation in the 6G Era—Is It Time for a Re-Think?” at the 2024 6G Global Summit hosted by Forum Global and Ofcom. Mr. Marsden will be joined by Federal Network Agency (BNetzA) Head of Section International Spectrum Affairs Alexander Kuehn and Ofcom Director of Spectrum Policy and Analysis Cristina Data.

Since the advent of 2G and 3G, regulators worldwide have commonly used spectrum auctions to allocate and license spectrum. However, as we progress toward 6G, it is becoming increasingly apparent a more adaptable approach will be necessary to meet the diverse connectivity requirements of different technologies and use cases. This prompts the question of whether a revaluation of spectrum allocation methods and award processes is warranted. Mr. Marsden and the panel will explore the matter and examine whether auctions will remain the most suitable means for spectrum allocation in the 6G era.