5G regulatory sandbox expanded

By the end of December 2018, the National Communications Commission (NCC) will expand the 5G regulatory sandbox in order to:
  • • inspire experimental 5G applications; and
  • • prepare Taiwan for the upcoming release of 5G spectrum for commercial use in 2020.

The NCC confirmed that the 3.4GHz to 3.6GHz and 28GHz bands are available for release via spectrum auctions, while further public comments are required regarding the 1,700MHz to 1,900MHz, 2,010MHz to 2,025MHz and 2,355MHz to 2,390MHz bands.

The NCC’s previous regulatory sandbox had been framed as a proof of concept only – experiments were only permitted subject to a temporary licence (maximum term of one year) issued by the NCC and under the strict rule that they involved no profit-seeking activities.

On 29 August 2018, following talks between the NCC and the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the latter announced that the revised sandbox will include a total of 38 special innovation zones, divided into the following categories:

  • • Category A: R&D for Internet of Vehicles in the 5,850MHz to 5,925MHz bands;
  • • Category B: applications for mobile Internet of Things in the 816MHz to 821MHz and 857MHz

    to 862MHz bands; and

  • • Category C: product development for 5G services in the 3,300MHz to 3,500MHz, 3,800MHz

    to 4,100MHz, 24GHz, 25GHz to 30GHz and 37GHz to 43.5GHz bands.

The NCC will perform document reviews and assist with frequency coordination and interference avoidance in order to fast track potential applicants that wish to enter the sandbox; such licences may be issued within seven days.

Further, the NCC aims to adopt a proof of business scheme in designated special innovation zones, which would – on the NCC’s prior consent – allow applicants to provide billable services which are not yet officially permissible for a maximum of six months, with a six-month extension for their experiment.

Despite the above, the NCC has reiterated that mobile virtual network operators and network slicing are areas of potential development within vertically integrated 5G applications, in collaboration with local carriers and mobile incumbents.

The materials contained on this website are for general information purposes only and are subject to the disclaimer.

Scroll to Top