Reaching our wireless potential

[Commentary] Whether we are using a data plan on licensed spectrum or accessing the web through Wi-Fi in unlicensed bands, we’ve all experienced the frustration of a slower connection. That is because the airwaves are overcrowded. In fact, Apple and Cisco recently released reports that found the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi band to be overloaded and no longer considered suitable for mission critical communications. Solving this problem isn’t easy. We can’t simply create more spectrum, but technology can help us maximize its utilization.

In the weeks ahead, the Senate Commerce Committee has an opportunity to advance a strategy that will ensure this public resource can reach its full potential. In order to do that, this legislation must include an aggressive proposal that will help us find ways to improve spectrum efficiency and make more capacity available for both licensed and unlicensed uses, like Wi-Fi. Legislation that will make more licensed spectrum available and facilitate deployment of supporting infrastructure is essential because it will give wireless providers the certainty they need to further develop their networks and offer innovative services to more customers. Legislation can also help us maintain our international leadership in wireless communication by providing a stable regulatory environment that will foster next generation technologies such as 5G. But while much attention focuses on how to make new frequencies available for licensed use, we need a clear plan to support the continued innovation in unlicensed bands. Our experience with Wi-Fi in unlicensed bands is the best example of the opportunity ahead.