Arcep opens applications for 5G pilot authorisations

French regulator Arcep announced that it can now issue temporary frequency authorisations to develop 5G pilots, using selected portions of spectrum in eligible bands. To this end, spectrum has already been earmarked in the 3.5 GHz band (3400 - 3800 MHz) and is currently available is several metropolitan areas. First outlined in June 2017, the plan to open 5G pilots aims to enable all market players in the value chain to explore new use cases and understand the challenges for the next generation of mobile services.

Interested parties are invited to contact the regulator with regard to their requirements for 5G trials. Within the 3.5 GHz band, frequencies are already available in the metropolitan areas of Lyon, Bordeaux, Nantes, Lille, Le Havre, Saint-Etienne, Douai, Montpellier and Grenoble. More locations could be added to this list over time. Other frequency ranges can also be made available on demand. In particular, the 26 GHz band is emerging as a promising contender for future 5G roll-outs and could open the way for disruptive technologies, said the regulator.