How to get from our 4G reality to the 5G future

Speedy 5G networks may be on the horizon, but consumer demand for wireless broadband is so intense that mobile companies like AT&T and Verizon need alternatives now — even if it means sharing airwaves with each other and with rival tech firms like Google. 5G networks are far from being fully deployed. While we're waiting, the tech, telecom and equipment industries have put aside (some of) their competitive differences to ensure the Federal Communications Commission approves a spectrum-sharing plan that will open up military airwaves for commercial use across the country. They want to use a wide swath of prime airwaves known as Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) that are controlled by the Navy. As soon as a final dispute is resolved, premium frequencies will be available to companies, as long as the Navy still gets first dibs.

The sticking point is how the spectrum will be divvied up. The current framework would auction off priority access spectrum in small chunks, by census tract. Large wireless providers want the FCC to make those license areas larger, arguing it's a more efficient use of the spectrum, will reduce interference risk and be easier for the FCC to auction. Others — including rural wireless companies, industrial players, and Google — say enlarging the license areas would make them too expensive for smaller firms to buy. FCC Commissioner Michael O'Rielly, who has been managing the process, has submitted a recommendation to FCC Chairman Ajit Pai to resolve the dispute, with a decision expected by the end of 2018. What's next: The FCC recently gave the green light to start initial CBRS deployment in part of airwaves, as soon as equipment lab testing is complete.