Telcos' stand on high-frequency bands puts 5G auctions in a spot

Without adequate mid and high frequency band, it is not possible for telcos to offer high speeds and low latency which are the key differentiator of 5G services

India’s 5G journey has got a jolt with telecom operators telling the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) that the stiff conditions imposed on using crucial 26 GHz spectrum are not acceptable because they will make deploying services financially unviable on the band. 

The conditions entail, among other things, using lower power on antennas, limiting coverage manifold.

Telcos have made it clear that the move will delay the rollout of 5G and discourage them from participating in the upcoming auction of 5G services, scheduled for the end of this year, especially because the government seems to be conceding demands from defence and