With a view to future spectrum assignments in two frequency bands in Metropolitan France – namely the 3410 – 3490 MHz and 3.8 – 4.2 GHz bands – Arcep is launching a public consultation whose main purpose is to:
- Identify mobile operators’ frequency requirements in the 3410 – 3490 MHz band for the operation of their public network, and gather their feedback on certain conditions of use for this band;
- Gather stakeholders’ feedback on the principles governing the assignment of the 3.8 – 4.2 GHz band for the deployment of local private mobile networks. Here, depending on the responses to this public consultation, Arcep plans on implementing a local assignment framework for the 3.8 – 4.2 GHz band for the deployment of local mobile networks for commercial purposes.
The bands in question have been identified to develop 5G coverage and the use of 5G for commercial purposes
The 3410 – 3490 MHz band, which will become available across the whole of mainland France on 25 July 2026, is part of the 3.4 – 3.8 GHz band, which has been harmonised in Europe for mobile use. As a reminder: the remainder of the 3.4 – 3.8 GHz band (i.e. 3490 – 3800 MHz frequencies) was assigned in 2020 in Metropolitan France to the country’s four mobile operators, which use it to provide 5G services.
The European Commission considers the 3.8 – 4.2 GHz band adequate to meet verticals’ frequency needs. It was the subject of a European harmonisation process to use 5G for low and medium-power applications on a local basis.
Stakeholders are invited to respond before 4 November 2024.