Ericsson Provides Updated Snapshot of Global Private 5G Spectrum Allocations

Ericsson has recently published an updated version of its white paper "5G Spectrum for Local Industrial Networks", offering timely insights into how dedicated spectrum is shaping Private 5G adoption across industries. The most notable update is Appendix A1, which presents a global snapshot of regulatory activity around spectrum set aside for industrial use, as of March 2025.

The paper reiterates that while countries vary in their approach to industrial spectrum allocation, the end goal remains the same — enabling ultra-reliable, high-performance connectivity to support mission-critical operations in sectors like manufacturing, automotive, and electronics.

Key takeaways include:

  • High stakes, high reliability: A vehicle rolling off the assembly line every 60 seconds underscores why manufacturers demand deterministic, SLA-backed wireless networks — and in some cases, direct control over spectrum access.
  • Long-term partnerships: Industrial lifecycles span 15–20 years, requiring CSPs to offer continuity, flexibility, and business models that cater to long-term service expectations.
  • Spectrum harmonization gaps: Fragmentation across national policies (e.g., Germany’s 3.7–3.8 GHz vs. Japan’s 28 GHz) risks ecosystem fragmentation. The EC’s ongoing work on the 3.8–4.2 GHz band is a step toward closing this gap in Europe.
  • Ownership models vary: Some industries want full control via private deployments, while others prefer managed solutions from CSPs — spectrum policy needs to accommodate both.
  • Real estate principle: Ericsson proposes that the property owner (e.g., a factory) should have the right to access locally licensed spectrum, balancing private use and public service integration.

As regulators around the world define their stances, Ericsson’s recommendations offer a practical framework for ensuring industrial connectivity needs are met without compromising spectrum efficiency or business innovation.

You can read the white paper here and access the PDF directly here.

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