Ofcom has confirmed how Wi-Fi and mobile services will share 6425–7125 MHz, with Automated Frequency Coordination required for higher-power and outdoor Wi-Fi and implementation continuing through autumn 2026.
11 August 2026
At a glance
· 6425–6585 MHz: Wi-Fi priority, including low-power indoor and very low power use
· 6585–7125 MHz: mobile priority, with Wi-Fi access only under Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC)
· Next steps: AFC provider applications open from 1 September 2026, while related regulations are expected in autumn 2026
What has UK Ofcom decided for the Upper 6 GHz band?
The UK Office of Communications (Ofcom) has confirmed a prioritised sharing framework for the Upper 6 GHz band (6425–7125 MHz) so that both Wi-Fi and future mobile services can use the spectrum.
The band will be divided into two portions:
· 6425–6585 MHz: Wi-Fi priority
· 6585–7125 MHz: mobile priority
In the Wi-Fi priority portion, low-power indoor and very low power Wi-Fi will be permitted on the same licence-exempt basis as the Lower 6 GHz band once the implementing regulations take effect. Higher-power and outdoor Wi-Fi will require AFC control.
Wi-Fi will also be able to use the mobile priority portion, but only under AFC control. This allows early Wi-Fi use while giving Ofcom a mechanism to restrict Wi-Fi where future mobile services are deployed.
What is AFC and which Wi-Fi products will need it?
Automated Frequency Coordination (AFC) is a database-driven spectrum management system that determines which frequencies and transmit-power levels a device may use at a specific location.
The final UK AFC framework covers 5925–7125 MHz and is particularly relevant to Standard Power access points, fixed client devices, outdoor Wi-Fi and fixed wireless access products.
Under the framework:
· Standard Power access points and fixed client devices can be authorised up to 36 dBm EIRP
· Standard Power and fixed client devices require geolocation capability
· devices must operate within the frequencies and power limits returned by the AFC system
· mobile client devices operate under the control of a Standard Power access point, with a maximum EIRP of 30 dBm subject to the applicable device conditions
For manufacturers, AFC therefore affects both radio operation and product functionality, not only the list of available 6 GHz channels.
When will the UK Upper 6 GHz changes take effect?
Ofcom’s policy decisions are confirmed, but implementation is still being completed in stages.
· 1 September 2026: Ofcom intends to begin accepting applications from prospective AFC service providers
· 7 September 2026: consultation closes on draft regulations extending ordinary low-power indoor and very low power Wi-Fi use to 6425–6585 MHz
· Autumn 2026: Ofcom plans to bring the AFC-related regulations into force and complete the regulations for low-power Upper 6 GHz Wi-Fi following consultation
Manufacturers should therefore distinguish between the final policy decisions announced on 20 July 2026 and the dates on which the supporting regulations become legally effective.
What should Wi-Fi equipment manufacturers check now?
Manufacturers planning UK 6 GHz products should first identify the intended frequency range, device class and operating environment.
Key points to review include:
· whether the product will use 5925–6425 MHz, 6425–6585 MHz, 6585–7125 MHz, or multiple portions of the 6 GHz band
· whether the device is low-power indoor, very low power or Standard Power
· whether outdoor or higher-power operation makes AFC control necessary
· geolocation and AFC communication requirements for Standard Power and fixed client devices
· applicable transmit-power limits and client-device conditions
· the final autumn 2026 regulations before completing UK conformity documentation or product launch planning
The practical impact will be greatest for manufacturers of Standard Power access points, fixed client equipment, outdoor Wi-Fi systems and fixed wireless access products. Conventional low-power indoor Wi-Fi products are affected mainly by the extension of licence-exempt spectrum into the lower 160 MHz of the Upper 6 GHz band.
Official Ofcom sources
· Ofcom: Expanding access to the 6 GHz band for commercial mobile and Wi-Fi services
· Ofcom: Enabling automated frequency coordination (AFC) in the 6 GHz band
