The United Kingdom is preparing for an important change in the use of the Upper 6 GHz band. On 20 July 2026, Ofcom published its final decisions for the 6425–7125 MHz range.
The new framework expands opportunities for Wi-Fi. At the same time, it preserves spectrum for future mobile services. However, manufacturers cannot activate the new operating conditions yet.
Ofcom’s Upper 6 GHz priority framework
Ofcom divided the Upper 6 GHz band into two priority segments:
- 6425–6585 MHz: 160 MHz with Wi-Fi priority
- 6585–7125 MHz: 540 MHz with mobile priority
The Wi-Fi priority segment will follow conditions similar to those already used in the Lower 6 GHz band. Therefore, it will support Low Power Indoor and Very Low Power applications.
Additionally, Ofcom will permit higher-power indoor and outdoor Wi-Fi across 5925–7125 MHz. However, these devices must operate under an Automated Frequency Coordination system.
Wi-Fi devices may also use the mobile priority segment through AFC. Nevertheless, future mobile networks will receive priority in that frequency range.
AFC uses a database to determine available frequencies at a device’s location. It also calculates the maximum permitted power level. As a result, the system can protect existing spectrum users while supporting new Wi-Fi deployments.
Products affected by the Upper 6 GHz decision
The decision may affect several wireless product categories. These include:
- Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 routers
- Enterprise and outdoor access points
- Wireless modules and chipsets
- Fixed wireless access equipment
- Laptops and smartphones
- Other connected products that support 6 GHz operation
Manufacturers should first review the frequencies that each product supports. Moreover, they should check transmit-power settings, geolocation functions and regulatory-domain controls.
Companies should also evaluate compatibility with Ofcom-registered AFC systems. This review will become especially important for products that offer Standard Power or outdoor operating modes.
Ofcom confirmed that AFC-controlled devices may support higher-power and outdoor Wi-Fi across the full Upper 6 GHz band. In addition, the regulator plans to apply the same framework used for AFC operation in the Lower 6 GHz band.
Implementation timeline and manufacturer actions
The July decision does not immediately authorize manufacturers to activate the new functions. Instead, Ofcom plans to introduce the required regulations in autumn 2026.
Ofcom will also begin accepting AFC service-provider applications on 1 September 2026. However, manufacturers must continue following the current UK spectrum requirements until the new regulations take effect.
Therefore, manufacturers should not enable Upper 6 GHz or Standard Power functions solely because Ofcom published the decision.
Before product activation, companies should verify:
- The final implementing regulations
- Updated UK interface requirements
- Applicable power and operating limits
- The availability of approved AFC service providers
- Product interoperability with registered AFC systems
Furthermore, Ofcom expects to publish additional decisions in autumn 2026. These decisions will address high-density areas and coexistence with future mobile services.
Companies that develop wireless products can use Entirety’s Regulatory Intelligence Service to monitor spectrum changes, implementation dates and country-specific wireless requirements.
Impact Assesment
- Technical Standards? ❌ No
- Type Approval & Market Access?
Yes - Imports, Customs, Trade, or Market Surveillance? ❌ No
- Spectrum Management? Yes
