The European Commission is pursuing the harmonisation of radio spectrum. On Thursday 11 October, it adopted an implementing decision aimed at harmonising the technical conditions for the use of the 874-876 and 915-921 MHz frequency bands.
This decision, which follows a favourable opinion from member states in the radio spectrum committee, aims to meet the spectrum needs of new generation radio frequency identification (RFID) devices and innovative "short-range network devices". This is an alternative technological approach to connect IoT devices by bypassing mobile phone networks.
In its press release, the Commission cites as an example the use of sensors connected to a network access point to collect data on soil quality or sensors and actuators installed in street lamps and connected to a controller to provide intelligent lighting.
It should be noted that, according to the Commission, the decision adopted will also benefit the rail and military sectors. The decision reserves the frequency bands in question (874-876 and 915-921 MHz) for potential future use of mobile rail communications, subject to further studies. (Original version in French by Sophie Petitjean)