A coalition of major U.S. technology companies has strongly objected to Indian telecom operators’ campaign to secure a large portion of the 6 GHz spectrum band (5925–7125 MHz) for mobile communications. According to industry sources, the tech majors—including leading cloud companies, device makers, and Wi-Fi hardware manufacturers—have submitted detailed representations to the Indian government arguing that reallocating the band for mobile networks would undermine India’s digital innovation ecosystem.

● 6 GHz Seen as Critical for Next-Generation Wi-Fi

The tech industry maintains that the 6 GHz band is globally emerging as a backbone for Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7, enabling ultra-high-speed indoor connectivity for homes, enterprises, and public hotspots. U.S. companies stressed that more than 70 countries have already opened the band, either fully or partially, for unlicensed Wi-Fi use, claiming that India risks falling behind global standards if it diverts the spectrum to mobile operators.

They argue that unlicensed access to 6 GHz would significantly boost India’s digital economy by enabling high-density connectivity in offices, factories, and campuses—critical for cloud services, IoT, and AI-driven applications.

● Indian Telcos Cite 5G Surge and Future 6G Needs

Indian telecom operators, however, insist that they urgently need mid-band spectrum to serve the rising data consumption driven by nationwide 5G rollouts. Operators have argued that the 6 GHz band offers a cost-efficient way to expand coverage and capacity while preparing for future 6G deployments.

The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has repeatedly urged the government to license at least 1200 MHz of the 6 GHz band for mobile use, warning that a shortage of mid-band spectrum could slow India’s digital growth and increase network congestion.

● Regulatory Battle Intensifies Ahead of Key Policy Decisions

The dispute has reached a critical stage as both the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and TRAI are expected to finalize recommendations for India’s long-term spectrum roadmap. Global tech companies have warned policymakers that splitting or licensing the 6 GHz band could limit consumer choice, inflate device costs, and weaken India’s public Wi-Fi programs.

On the other hand, telecom operators argue that without access to the 6 GHz band, the cost of expanding 5G capacity will rise sharply—potentially burdening consumers.

● India’s Decision Could Shape Global Wireless Trends

Industry experts note that India’s final stance will carry significant international influence, as it is one of the world’s largest digital markets. A decision in favor of Wi-Fi would align India with the United States and the EU, while allocating the band to mobile services would match the preferences of China and several Middle Eastern nations.