The European Commission (EC) has requested that governments widen the available Wi-Fi spectrum to meet the increasing demand for mobile internet, reports thenextweb.com.
A study from the EC shows that 71 per cent per cent of all wireless data traffic in 2012 came through Wi-Fi connections. Due to the expected 66 per cent annual increase in data demand, governments are currently promoting the use of technology they believe can lessen the burden on mobile data services.
In the study, Vice president of the European Commission, Neelie Kroes mooted the idea of opening up the 5150MHz to 5925MHz spectrum globally for Wi-Fi. The report also recommended that governments reassess licensing options for the 2.6GHz and 3.5 GHz bands to make them “fully available” for mobile traffic.
This, according to the report, will alleviate some of the strain on networks in pubic locations.
Cited by v3.co.uk, Ms Kroes said: “Wi-Fi is a huge success. It’s a win for everybody involved.
“I will make sure the European Commission helps to spread use of Wi-Fi through extra spectrum and lighter regulation.”
Ms Kroes stated that everyone in Europe should be able to access the internet while they’re at home and work, stating that systems where people can share their Wi-Fi network with others are a “great example” of getting more people connected.
