Telecoms.com Podcast Spectrum, wifi and US vs China
May 15, 2025
Dave Wright, a spectrum policy consultant, dives into the complexities of spectrum demand in telecommunications. He discusses why operators are constantly lobbying for more spectrum, delving into the tug-of-war between cellular and Wi-Fi technologies. The conversation also touches on evolving U.S. trade policies toward China, highlighting the geopolitical implications of tariffs and technology sales. With insights on the challenges faced by the telecom industry, Wright offers a compelling look at the intersection of policy, technology, and global relations.
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Spectrum: Lifeblood and Moat
- Spectrum is the lifeblood of wireless, and operators continually demand more even when mid-band seems sufficient.
- This is partly to keep spectrum away from competitors and maintain a high barrier to entry.
Wi-Fi's Crucial Role Indoors
- The cellular industry historically considered Wi-Fi an untrusted network but now relies heavily on Wi-Fi calling.
- Wi-Fi carries the vast majority of indoor data and voice traffic, especially during the pandemic.
Wi-Fi Advocacy Awakening
- The Wi-Fi industry's spectrum advocacy was dormant until about 2012 when LTE unlicensed proposals threatened its bands.
- Since then, companies like Cisco and others have increased efforts to protect unlicensed spectrum vital to Wi-Fi.