France Explores Midband Spectrum Allocation for Private Networks
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Loading... - Chiara Costa
- 09 Aug 2024
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France is making strides in the evolution of its telecommunications infrastructure by considering the allocation of midband spectrum for private networks. The French telecommunications regulator, Arcep, has initiated a public consultation process to explore future spectrum assignments in the 3.410-3.490 GHz and 3.8-4.2 GHz frequency bands. This move could significantly enhance the deployment of local mobile networks, particularly for commercial and industrial purposes.
Public Consultation on Spectrum Allocation
Arcep's public consultation aims to gather insights from stakeholders regarding the spectrum needs of mobile operators and the potential use cases for private networks. The consultation is focused on two specific frequency bands:
- 3.410-3.490 GHz Band: This band, part of the larger 3.4-3.8 GHz range harmonized across Europe for mobile use, will become available nationwide in mainland France on July 25, 2026. Arcep is seeking feedback from mobile operators on their frequency requirements for this band, which is crucial for the operation of public mobile networks.
- 3.8-4.2 GHz Band: This band is being considered for local private mobile networks, often referred to as verticals. The European Commission has identified this frequency range as suitable for addressing the specific needs of industries and enterprises. Arcep's consultation seeks to determine how best to allocate this spectrum to support low and medium-power 5G applications on a local basis.
Depending on the feedback received, Arcep may establish a local assignment framework for the 3.8-4.2 GHz band, enabling the deployment of private mobile networks tailored to the needs of various industries.
Importance of the 3.410-3.490 GHz and 3.8-4.2 GHz Bands
The 3.410-3.490 GHz band is part of the broader 3.4-3.8 GHz band, which has been earmarked for 5G services across Europe. In France, the remaining portion of this band was allocated in 2020 to the country’s four major mobile operators—Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile—specifically for the provision of 5G services.
The 3.8-4.2 GHz band, on the other hand, is seen as a critical resource for enabling 5G applications in specialized environments. These could include industrial automation, smart manufacturing, and other verticals that require reliable, low-latency connectivity within confined areas. The band has undergone a European harmonization process to facilitate its use for such local applications.
Current State of 5G Deployment in France
As of July 1, 2024, France had authorized a total of 47,046 5G sites, with 38,138 of them declared technically operational by the country’s mobile carriers, according to the latest report from France's spectrum agency ANFR. The number of operational 5G sites increased by 0.9% in June, reflecting ongoing efforts to expand the 5G network across the country.
Most of these 5G sites are built on existing cellular infrastructure that also supports 2G, 3G, and 4G technologies. In France, mobile carriers are delivering 5G services using the 700 MHz, 2.1 GHz, and 3.5 GHz spectrum bands. Specifically:
- 700 MHz Band: 24,825 sites are authorized, with 19,635 operational.
- 2.1 GHz Band: 20,547 sites are authorized, with 15,507 operational.
- 3.5 GHz Band: 30,889 sites are authorized, with 24,027 operational.
Among the mobile operators, Free Mobile leads with the highest number of operational 5G sites (19,632), followed by Bouygues Telecom (13,774), SFR (12,239), and Orange (10,104). Some of these sites are shared among operators, indicating a collaborative approach to expanding 5G coverage.
Potential Impact of Midband Spectrum Allocation
The allocation of midband spectrum for private networks in the 3.8-4.2 GHz range could have far-reaching implications for industries in France. By enabling the deployment of localized 5G networks, businesses could leverage high-speed, low-latency connectivity to enhance operations, drive innovation, and maintain a competitive edge.
The consultation process launched by Arcep is a critical step in shaping the future of 5G in France. By gathering input from stakeholders, the regulator aims to ensure that the spectrum is allocated in a way that maximizes its potential for both public and private use.
France’s consideration of midband spectrum allocation for private networks reflects the growing demand for specialized 5G applications across various industries. As Arcep moves forward with its public consultation, the feedback it receives will play a crucial role in determining how this valuable resource is distributed. This initiative underscores France's commitment to advancing its telecommunications infrastructure, positioning the country as a leader in the global 5G landscape.
