Dish, other 12 GHz backers see 5G prospects rise in C-band’s wake

Remember the bit about the 12 GHz band that 5G proponents were using to advance their argument at the Federal Communications Commission? The one about “no federal encumbrances”? That seems to be rising to the top in the wake of all the recent problems associated with C-band spectrum. Granted, the 12 GHz band has its own set of challenges for the 5G for 12 GHz Coalition, which represents Dish Network, among others. In 2021 the coalition pointed out the advantages of the 12 GHz band while commending the FCC for making 100 MHz available in the 3.45 GHz band. One of their biggest challenges is Starlink, the satellite service being deployed by SpaceX founder Elon Musk. Plus, there are other issues, such as whether an auction should be held to give players other than Dish a stab at the 12 GHz band for 5G.  Still, the 5G for 12 GHz Coalition pointed out that the 12 GHz band is the “only remaining unencumbered 5G spectrum” between 6 and 24 GHz that can meet the demand for mobile broadband. It represents the greatest opportunity to propel the US into “global telecom leadership,” providing more capacity for Wi-Fi and spectrum sharing along the way. With 500 MHz in the band, it’s five times the spectrum that was offered in the 3.45 GHz auction.