Revolutionizing IoT: How Innovative Spectrum Use Will Power the UK’s 5G Future

Three years after the United Nations recognized internet access as a human right, the UK is positioning itself as a global digital leader. Seamless, high‑speed connectivity—enabled by 5G—is essential for the next wave of IoT innovation.

Adam Leach, Director of Emerging Technology at Nominet, explains that 5G’s low latency and massive bandwidth will unlock new use cases across sectors—from precision agriculture to advanced manufacturing. To realise these benefits, reliable 5G coverage must be a national standard.

Coverage Gaps Still Exist

Despite the promise of 5G, the UK’s connectivity record is uneven. Ofcom’s latest data show that roughly 10% of the country’s land area remains without 4G coverage, and the gap could widen for 5G if current spectrum policies stay unchanged.

The existing national spectrum strategy and licensing framework do not sufficiently incentivise operators to deploy infrastructure in rural or remote regions. This results in digital disparities that hinder the IoT vision and reinforce socioeconomic divides.

Ofcom’s recent proposals for greater spectrum flexibility are a significant step forward. By allowing independent entrants to operate in key 4G bands (e.g., 1800 MHz and 2300 MHz), the regulator can stimulate early IoT adoption in underserved areas.

A New Telecoms Model

These proposals align with the Future Telecoms Infrastructure Review (FTIR) issued by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS). The FTIR recommends a “market expansion” model that encourages broader participation in spectrum use, particularly for 5G licences.

Internationally, similar reforms are underway. The US’s Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) and Japan’s dynamic spectrum sharing initiatives aim to maximise spectrum efficiency and accelerate 5G roll‑outs.

Japan’s leadership in technology, coupled with the US’s robust telecom ecosystem, underscores the urgency for the UK to adopt comparable strategies. The government’s target of nationwide 5G coverage by 2027 depends on rapid, cost‑effective deployment.

Under the current model, 5G rollout hinges on operators’ financial feasibility. A revised framework would enable new entrants to deploy services without acquiring a full national licence, speeding coverage and fostering competition.

Economic Imperatives

The Future Communications Challenge Group (2017) projected that 5G could generate £112 billion (€128 billion) for the UK in 2020, growing to £164 billion (€188 billion) by 2030. If the UK leads in 5G technology, the impact could rise to £198 billion (€227 billion)—approximately 5.7% of GDP.

Reliable revenue streams are especially critical amid post‑Brexit uncertainties. A collaborative spectrum strategy will not only unlock economic growth but also secure the UK’s competitive edge in the global IoT landscape.

In summary, 5G is no longer a luxury—it is the foundation for future connectivity. Ofcom’s early proposals provide a pragmatic, fit‑for‑purpose pathway that could resolve current 4G challenges and lay the groundwork for a digitally unified UK.

Author: Adam Leach, Director of Emerging Technology, Nominet