T-Mobile is making strides toward exploring new frontiers in wireless connectivity, particularly with the potential use of the 7GHz band for upcoming 6G services. The company has established a strong foundation in various frequency bands, starting with its acquisition of the low-band 600MHz spectrum for nearly $8 billion in 2017. This spectrum allows T-Mobile to provide nationwide 5G coverage as its signals can travel long distances and navigate obstacles like buildings and trees.
However, low-band signals do not deliver the fastest data speeds. To enhance its 5G capabilities, T-Mobile invested $26 billion in acquiring Sprint, which offered an extensive 2.5GHz mid-band spectrum. This additional bandwidth provided the company with faster download speeds while still maintaining long-distance coverage compared to high-band mmWave spectrum.
Reports indicate that T-Mobile is now testing Nokia’s telecom equipment in the 7GHz band, which may be crucial for the development of future wireless technologies, specifically 6G. The company has received a waiver from the FCC allowing it to test experimental prototype wireless equipment in Bellevue, Washington. This testing focuses on advanced technologies such as beamforming and higher MIMO configurations, which will boost radio coverage significantly.
Although T-Mobile did not explicitly mention 6G in its FCC filings, the frequency range of 7.125-7.525GHz aligns with the spectrum Nokia is using for its 6G tests in Dallas. A white paper from 5G Americas emphasizes that this frequency range will enhance capacity and data speeds substantially. T-Mobile is collaborating with AI chip provider Nvidia and its partners, Ericsson and Nokia, to explore an AI-driven 6G solution.
Despite previous speculation about switching suppliers, it appears that T-Mobile is committed to moving forward with Nokia for its 7GHz band trials. However, consumers will have to wait until 2030 for the introduction of 6G connectivity.