Frequencies for launching 5G in Switzerland
Bern, 08.11.2017 - New frequency bands are to be allocated to the mobile communications sector to enable the launch of "5G" technology in Switzerland. This was decided by the Federal Council at its session on 8 November 2017 when the changes to the National Frequency Allocation Plan (NFAP) were approved.
In order to meet the growing demand for frequencies in the communication technologies sector, the Federal Council is implementing a decision of the 2015 World Radio Conference: use of the 694-790 MHz range of frequencies, originally reserved for broadcasting, will be changed and will henceforth be designated for broadband mobile radio applications. Furthermore, strategic measures are being taken to enable future use of mobile radio frequencies in additional frequency bands. With these measures the Federal Council is creating the conditions for the expansion of existing mobile radio infrastructures and is paving the way for the introduction of the new 5G technology in Switzerland. This new mobile radio technology will constitute a key element of the telecommunications infrastructure of tomorrow's digital society. Among other things it permits much higher data transfer rates and much shorter response times than 4G technology.
The new frequencies will be allocated in the coming year by ComCom, the Swiss Federal Communications Commission.
Within the framework of the revision of the NFAP (National Frequency Allocation Plan), the Federal Council has also taken measures to meet the growing demand for mobile broadband communications from the Swiss rescue and security authorities and organisations (BORS). This is taking place in cooperation with public mobile radio operators.
In the Alpine region, the risks of avalanches and landslides are increasing because of climate change. Consequently, additional frequency resources are being allocated in the NFAP to radar systems for early detection and monitoring of the areas at risk.
The National Frequency Allocation Plan defines which frequencies are used for which services. The Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM) is responsible for updating it.
Address for enquiries
Federal Office of Communications OFCOM
Press Service
+41 58 460 55 50, media@bakom.admin.ch
Publisher
The Federal Council
https://www.admin.ch/gov/en/start.html
General Secretariat of the Federal Department of Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications; General Secretariat DETEC
https://www.uvek.admin.ch/uvek/en/home.html
Federal Office of Communications
http://www.ofcom.admin.ch
