Ofcom announces potential 5G bandwidths

UK communications industry regulator Ofcom has announced the determination of several potential bandwidths that could be utilised for the rollout of 5G mobile broadband in the years ahead.

The 10 GHz, 32 GHz, 40 GHz, 45 GHz and 66 GHz radio spectrum ranges have been identified by Ofcom as offering the most likely bandwidths for upgrade, with new 5G services aimed at delivering ultrafast internet connectivity for eventual users.

A statement from the regulator read: "We think these bands may be relatively straightforward to make available in the UK compared to other options within the range 6-100 GHz.

"[They] could have potential for being harmonised and developed for future 5G use globally."

Current 4G networks offer average download speeds of around 15 Mbps in the UK, but 5G systems could be much faster, with ultrafast networks designated as providing transfer rates of 100 Mbps or more.