Moving forward on spectrum policy

What kind of spectrum policy do we need to keep meeting consumer demand? First, we need to continue the flow of spectrum. In most countries, including the United States, the federal government is the largest spectrum holder. Clearing and deploying new spectrum takes years -- more than 10 years on average. Second, we need to experiment with novel ways to utilize spectrum, including various forms of spectrum sharing. Third, in the US we have benefitted tremendously from policymakers having the foresight to make spectrum available under flexible exclusive use terms. That needs to continue. Fourth, we need to continue to improve the utilization of the spectrum already in use. One example of this is the experimentation that various parties currently are doing with LTE Unlicensed. Finally, in parallel with all of these efforts in today’s spectrum bands, we need to begin planning for the next wave of wireless technology, 5G.