C-band frequency

The c band frequency is transmitted from 3.7 to 4.2 GHz in two tranches. The first 100 MHz is currently available in 50 markets in the United States, covering approximately 60% of the American population. Verizon and AT&T share the 60/40 "Block A" airwaves. So Verizon would be on top, and AT&T on the bottom, the 50 MHz rule of thumb that I use for real 5G differentiation.

Another 180 MHz is expected to be released at the end of 2023. That includes a lot of Verizon and AT&T spectrum, as well as wireless spectrum purchased by T-Mobile, US Cellular and some other phone companies. At that time, Verizon will end up with an average of 160 MHz of spectrum and AT&T with an average of 80 MHz, both of which could offer a truly different 5G experience.

 The program provides for the launch of these networks at the end of 2023 or 2024. These launches may, however, earlier in 2023, if the standards of the 600 MHz band are maintained. T-Mobile took over a large part of the 600 MHz band, which used to be TV channels 14 to 55, in 2017. This has a license that extends until July 2020. But T-Mobile works with broadcasters (and pays) to get licenses early, getting licenses from New York City more than a year ahead of schedule, for example.

AT&T, Dish and T-Mobile are the customers of the 3.45 GHz frequency. AT&T and Dish said they plan to turn them on as soon as the equipment is available, either later in 2022 or early 2023. T-Mobile is keeping its 3.45 GHz for when it needs the license.