26 October 2023
Ofcom is considering softening its requirements for licence exempt indoor mobile phone repeaters to reflect both the introduction of in-vehicle 5G and the withdrawal of older 2G and 3G networks. Most operators expect to close 3G by the end of 2024, while both 2G and 3G must be switched-off by 2033.
Consumers have been using repeaters that boost and retransmit UK mobile signals since 2018, since they can help improve local mobile coverage, provided they follow the rules and don’t cause undue interference, or other adverse effects, for nearby customers.
However, the current regulations state that static indoor repeaters designed to boost a 4G mobile (mobile broadband) signal must also repeat a 2G and/or 3G signal. This is starting to conflict with the current move to sunset 2G and 3G networks, and Ofcom is now considering updating its rules accordingly.
Proposals include removing the requirement for indoor repeaters that boost a 4G signal to also carry a 2G and/or 3G signal or frequency in order to be licence-exempt. This will allow the installation and use of 4G-only repeaters, subject to compliance with the remaining technical conditions included in the licence exemption regulations.
Another amendment may include updating the regulations and associated Interface Requirements to enable in-vehicle mobile repeaters to amplify signals in the 700MHz band, and to make them technology neutral. This enables them to repeat 5G signals in the bands included in the Interface Requirement.
