Ofcom has set out proposals that could see mobile and Wi-Fi networks in the UK sharing parts of the same radio spectrum for the first time, a move aimed at boosting connectivity and supporting future technologies including 6G.

Historically, mobile and Wi-Fi services have operated on separate parts of the radio spectrum, the wavelengths that wireless technology uses to transmit signals, to avoid interference. Under Ofcom’s proposals, the UK would become the first country in Europe to allow the upper 6 GHz band to be shared between these two technologies, with Wi-Fi prioritised in one portion and mobile in the other.

According to the regulator, technical conditions and strict controls would be applied to prevent services from interfering with each other.

The approach is designed to meet growing demand for airwaves in homes, businesses and busy public spaces. Broadband companies and businesses have struggled to keep up with the need for Wi-Fi spectrum, while mobile operators face capacity challenges in crowded locations such as train stations and stadiums.

By increasing available spectrum, the proposals would support faster, more reliable Wi-Fi and mobile networks, facilitate data-intensive applications such as artificial intelligence and VR, and lay groundwork for the eventual rollout of 6G.

Ofcom has opened a consultation on the plans, inviting responses by 20 March 2026. The regulator has proposed that existing low-power Wi-Fi technology could use the upper 6 GHz spectrum by the end of the year, while mobile services would follow later, initially focusing on densely populated areas where demand is highest.

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In addition to the upper 6 GHz proposals, Ofcom has confirmed new plans for the lower 6 GHz band, currently used for low-power and indoor Wi-Fi.

This band will now be made available for high-power and outdoor Wi-Fi, enabling advanced connectivity in locations such as sports stadiums, high-tech factories, hospitals, railway stations and universities. Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC) databases will be required to prevent interference, and Ofcom has launched a consultation on their operation, also open until 20 March 2026.

David Willis, Ofcom’s Group Director for Spectrum, said: “Today’s announcements reaffirm the UK’s position as a leader in Europe in getting the most out of the airwaves we all rely on.

“Sharing Upper 6 GHz would be a win for businesses and homes across the country who want both better Wi-Fi and mobile networks that are fit for the future. And our decision on lower 6 GHz will boost broadband services across the UK. Our plans open the doors to further economic growth and investment, while supporting the delivery of crucial innovations like 6G in the future.”