Core and Extension Bands
3G HSPA is becoming a mass market for both traditional and new 3G mobile services including:
- Flat rate (‘all you can eat’ access)
- HSPA network upgrades
- Mobile Web 2.0
- New devices such as HSPA Dongles (USB Modems)
Just as GSM did with voice and SMS, 3G HSPA will universalise broadband access around the world in both developed and emerging economies.
Future demands
In the next 12 years, we will need three times more spectrum (1.2GHz to 1.8GHz) in each national market to accommodate data traffic demand and enable universal mobile broadband access.
This demand for additional capacity means that refarming of the 850MHz, 900MHz and 1800MHz bands for mobile broadband will not on its own be enough.
Urgent licensing of additional spectrum in the 3G core band (1920-1960MHz, paired with 2110-2170Mhz) and the 3G extension band (2500-2690MHz) is also needed.
Core 3G bands must be opened up on a global scale in order to reach the volumes that enable low-cost handsets, as these will underpin the availability of mobile broadband for all.
The implementation of appropriate government policy is critical to success.
GSMA action
The GSMA is working together with operator members, regulators and policy makers to accelerate the availability of 3G core and extension bands.
We are following a structured programme of engagement with governments and regulatory authorities to lobby for rapid licensing of both the 3G core band and the 3G extension band, on a harmonised basis.
