Brazil's Anatel to launch public consultation on 500 MHz of 6 GHz band for outdoor use

The National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel) announced that a study on the 6 GHz spectrum is complete and that it will open a public consultation on the allocation of the 500 MHz low‑frequency portion for outdoor Wi‑Fi use. The agency plans to split the 6 GHz band, reserving 700 MHz of the upper sub‑band for Mobile Personal Service and 500 MHz of the lower sub‑band for unlicensed Wi‑Fi, after postponing the auction originally slated for 2026 to 2028.

Anatel officials stressed that the final decision will be based on technical evidence, market contributions and dialogue with stakeholders. President Carlos Baigorri and councilor Alexandre Freire said the process will consider international models—from the United States, Canada, Costa Rica and the United Kingdom—and will aim to balance innovation, competition, investment security and digital inclusion. Industry representatives such as Vinicius Caram, Arthur Coimbra of Abrint and Martha Soares of the Dynamic Spectrum Alliance highlighted the potential for higher gigabit‑per‑second services and broader coverage in high‑traffic areas.

The GSMA backed Anatel’s proposed division, describing it as a suitable approach to foster growth in both mobile and Wi‑Fi industries.