Overview

• Reliance Jio has formally requested the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to allow the use of the 26 GHz band, originally designated for 5G, for WiFi services.
• The request was made under Clause 2.3 of the 2022 spectrum auction guidelines, which require prior DoT approval for repurposing spectrum for alternative uses.
• If Jio's request is approved, Bharti Airtel is expected to submit a similar application for the 26 GHz band.
• The 26 GHz band offers financial advantages, including reduced spectrum usage charges, and could support a hybrid WiFi deployment strategy in urban areas.
• The ecosystem for large-scale 5G deployment in the 26 GHz band is still developing, with limited device and equipment support globally.