Commissioned by CTIAAdvancing US Wireless ExcellenceThe Case for Global Spectrum HarmonizationThe United States has a gap in the amount of mid-band spectrum available for commercial wireless use that must be addressed to keep up with rising demand for wireless connectivity. By prioritizing the allocation of harmonized spectrum, the US can realize significant harmonization and leadership benefits that will maximize returns on clearing bands to meet growing demand. If the US ignores this opportunity however, it will leave significant value on the table and will risk limiting its influence and future leadership in the global wireless ecosystem.Executive Summary12345+The role of spectrum has evolved with each wireless generation, and the growing demand for it is expected to continue in the coming years. This is particularly true in the lower mid-band (3-8.5 GHz), where bands that have a strong mix of coverage and capacity are vital to realize use cases from 5G and future generations.* Meeting this rising demand requires making a substantial amount of mid-band available in a way that balances various interests with broader economic and societal benefit. Spectrum harmonization is one such strategic approach, which involves aligning spectrum regulation and commercial allocations with other countries. Allocating harmonized spectrum will not only ensure that the US avoids isolating itself from the international community, but it will enable it to maintain the wireless leadership it has demonstrated in 4G and early on in 5G.Harmonization and wireless leadership offer incremental benefits beyond those associated with simply releasing more mid-band spectrum. These include unlocking economies of scale across the wireless value chain as well as fueling new sources of growth and innovation through wireless leadership, which are projected to generate approximately $23-$44B and $140B-$180B, respectively, in economic value over the next 10 years. These benefits will largely be felt by consumers and businesses in the form of cheaper devices and connectivity, improved service, and transformative new technology and use cases.To realize and accelerate the benefits from spectrum harmonization, and ensure continued US wireless leadership, the US must license more spectrum, specifically in the 3.3-3.45 GHz, 4.4-4.94 GHz, and 7.125-8.5 GHz ranges. The US should also collaborate internationally to drive technical standards, support device and network ecosystem innovation, and encourage the rapid deployment of critical network infrastructure. The US is developing implementation details for its National Spectrum Strategy, providing a key opportunity to catch up with other nations and lead the next wave of harmonization. Without swift action to license lower 3 GHz, 4 GHz, and the 7/8 GHz bands, the US could miss out on up to $200B in benefits.Executive Summary Our previous paper...
