Anatel issues consultation on using 2.3GHz for 5G

The Brazilian telecom regulator has launched a public consultation to hear public opinion on the destination of the 2.3GHz band for future 5G technology.

The consultation process will last for 30 days and contributions can be sent electronically, through the interactive public consultation monitoring system (SACP), Anatel said in a statement.

Currently, 67% of the stations licensed for the 2.3 GHz bands are TV repeaters or auxiliary broadcasting services, such as radio links for external reporting, and just 32% are used for fixed-to-wireless broadband services, according to the agency.

The idea is to leave the 2.3GHz band with just fixed telephony, mobile telephony and fixed line broadband.

The broadcasters using the frequency will only operate with interference protection until November 2019 and will not be entitled to any extension of the use of the band, according to Anatel's proposal.

Broadband in 5G allows speeds of up to 100Mbps for users, 10 times faster than 4G. 5G should also allow the expansion of technological development for the Internet of Things (IoT), augmented reality and smart cities.

Anatel is also considering the 3.5GHz band for 5G.

Brazil is the Latin American country with most spectrum destined to mobile broadband, according to GSMA.