The race toward 6G is accelerating, and one of its core elements is spectrum management. The frequencies allocated to 6G will define its speed, latency, coverage, and practical applications.
What Is the Radio Spectrum?
The radio spectrum is the range of electromagnetic frequencies used for wireless data transmission. It is divided into bands assigned to various technologies: radio, television, mobile networks, satellites, etc.
For mobile communications, spectrum is a finite and highly valuable resource. Earlier generations—like 4G and 5G—have already occupied many bands, so 6G must explore new regions, particularly those offering ultra-high data capacity.
Candidate Frequency Bands for 6G
According to global bodies such as 3GPP, ITU, and academic research, these bands are strong candidates for 6G:
| Frequency Range | Common Name | Expected 6G Use |
|---|---|---|
| 100 GHz - 300 GHz | Sub-THz or terahertz | Ultra-fast transmissions over short range |
| 6 GHz - 24 GHz | Upper mid bands | Balance between coverage and speed |
| 24 GHz - 100 GHz | Millimeter waves | High capacity for urban zones |
| Below 6 GHz | Traditional bands | Wide coverage and backward compatibility |
As discussed in our article on 6G benefits beyond speed, sub-THz bands will be key for applications like autonomous vehicles, remote surgeries, or tactile networks.
Challenges of Using Very High Frequencies
- Limited range: Higher frequencies (like THz) have very limited coverage and struggle with obstacles.
- Increased power needs: More energy is required to maintain stable connections.
- Specialized hardware: New devices and antennas must be developed for these frequencies.
This will require denser networks, with small base stations spread throughout urban environments.
Dynamic Spectrum Allocation and Sharing
One major 6G trend is dynamic spectrum management. Thanks to AI, frequencies can be reassigned in real-time based on demand.
Additionally, spectrum sharing between operators is expected, optimizing usage of limited frequencies.
Implementation Examples: South Korea, China, and the US
South Korea, China, and the US have begun testing 6G spectrum, particularly in the sub-THz band. Korea is exploring 140 GHz for holographic streaming, while China focuses on smart sensors using these frequencies.
In the US, the FCC has opened the 95-300 GHz range for unlicensed experimentation, anticipating gradual adoption by industry players.
What Does This Mean for Users?
Frequency choices will directly affect user experience. Lower frequencies are better for rural coverage, while higher ones will power smart cities, autonomous vehicles, and extended reality applications.
In our article on how 6G will change your daily life, we explain how this shift will transform sectors from health to industry.
Comparison with 5G
5G primarily uses bands between 3.5 GHz and 28 GHz. In contrast, 6G will expand into frequencies above 100 GHz, requiring entirely new network and device designs—as explained in our article on how 6G differs from 5G.
In this article we’ve learned that…
- 6G will use a wide spectrum, from traditional bands to the terahertz range.
- Sub-THz bands will enable ultra-fast applications, though with infrastructure challenges.
- Smart spectrum management and sharing will be essential for efficient networks.
- Impact will vary by geography: broader rural coverage with low bands, urban innovation with high bands.
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