Nearly seven years ago, President Trump expressed enthusiasm for advancing wireless technology in the U.S., tweeting, "I want 5G, and even 6G, technology in the United States as soon as possible. It is far more powerful, faster, and smarter than the current standard." While this message initially sparked debate, the push for 6G is now becoming tangible as commercial deployment is anticipated to begin around 2030.
Designated Spectrum Bands for 6G: 7.125-7.4 GHz, 2.69-2.9 GHz, and 4.4-4.94 GHz
In a recent White House fact sheet, it was revealed that the Trump Administration has taken concrete steps to place the U.S. at the forefront of 6G development. Through a Presidential Memorandum, President Trump mandated the reallocation of the 7.125-7.4 GHz spectrum band by requiring Federal agencies currently occupying this range to submit plans to relocate within a 12-month timeframe. This initiative aims to clear the airwaves for full-power commercial 6G use, ensuring national security remains uncompromised during the transition.
Additional spectrum bands being considered for 6G include the 2.69-2.9 GHz and 4.4-4.94 GHz ranges. The Administration recognizes that leading the global race for 6G involves more than freeing up domestic spectrum—it also includes diplomatic efforts spearheaded by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and others to bolster America’s leadership internationally.
Public Opinion: Timing of the Trump Administration’s 6G Involvement
Current Poll Results (37 votes):
Too early: 35.14%
Just at the right time: 51.35%
Too late: 13.51%
6G’s Role in Driving Next-Generation Technologies
The Presidential Memorandum highlights how 6G networks will underpin emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, advanced robotics, and implantable devices by providing ultra-fast connection speeds, exceptionally low latency, and higher data capacity. These capabilities are expected to revolutionize connectivity and technological innovation in the coming decade.
Trump’s Vision: Cementing America as a Global Technology Leader
President Trump’s push for 6G spectrum reallocation dovetails with his broader strategy to establish the U.S. as a dominant force in cutting-edge scientific and technological fields. Recent Executive Orders focus on maintaining American supremacy in AI, strengthening cybersecurity defenses, and fostering innovation. Furthermore, the Administration is encouraging the growth of supersonic aviation by reducing regulatory barriers, reinforcing the commitment to leading in disruptive technologies across multiple sectors.
CBRS Spectrum Exclusion in 6G Plans
Notably, the memorandum does not include the Citizens Band Radio Service (CBRS) frequencies in its 6G strategy. According to independent research from New Street Research (NSR), this omission suggests a deliberate decision to preserve CBRS, a spectrum currently utilized by cable companies and others for wireless services.
AT&T has proposed relocating CBRS from its 3.5 GHz allocation to the 3.1-3.3 GHz band, a move supported by the Department of Defense, to create a contiguous mid-band spectrum block (3.55-3.7 GHz) for exclusive wireless carrier auctioning. Presently, CBRS frequencies are shared with military operations, underscoring the complexity of spectrum management as technology advances.
