Three spectrum bands have been identified as most suitable for the introduction of 5G in Europe: 700 MHz, 3.4–3.8 GHz and 26 GHz. The European Union will soon adopt targets to make these bands available by 2020.

Our new research on EU targets for the 5G pioneer bands shows which countries have awarded:

• the 700 MHz band
• at least 150 MHz for 5G in the 3.4–3.8 GHz band, and
• at least 1 GHz in the 26 GHz band.

Italy is the first EU member state that has awarded spectrum for 5G in all three bands, but the 700 MHz band will only become available in 2022.

Finland awarded the 700 MHz and 3.4–3.8 GHz bands, awarding 26 GHz is planned for 2020.

Our other Spectrum benchmark on upcoming and ongoing spectrum awards in Europe shows that many countries are preparing auctions, in particular of the 700 MHz and 3.4–3.8 GHz bands.

Most countries have already awarded licences for the 3.4–3.8 GHz band which can at least be used for 4G. However, our updated analysis of this band shows that only few licences offer contiguous blocks of at least 50 MHz, which will be necessary to make the best use of 5G technology.