UK SPF Invitation to Tender: AI for spectrum management
The Forum's open calls for commissioned research are a fantastic opportunity to work with us and explore potential frameworks that advance spectrum policy debates. The UK SPF focused this year's second commissioning call on exploring potential use cases of AI techniques for spectrum management in th UK environment.
Artificial Intelligence for Spectrum Management
The use of AI has potential to further improve aspects like frequency coordination and propagation estimation, leading to more efficient spectrum use. However, deeper studies are needed on AI adoption by regulatory agencies, weighing potential efficiency gains against costs and risks.
The project aims to focus specifically on how AI/ML can advance spectrum management in the UK environment without rehashing general AI benefits.
Key dates
- ITT issued: 01 August 2024
- Deadline for clarification of questions: 22 August 2024
- Deadline to submit your tender: 04 September 2024
Additional information
The project aims to understand the impacts of AI on existing licensing processes and anticipates its broader adoption in future 6G networks, which could have significant regulatory and policy implications. The study will analyze various technologies and processes necessary for deploying AI in spectrum management. This analysis will consider the costs to stakeholders, the model for risk allocation, and the responsibilities that come with implementing AI technology in licensing and spectrum management.
Collaboration is a crucial aspect of the study, especially concerning the commercial viability and data considerations of launching AI-based spectrum management solutions. The project will assess the business case for these solutions, taking into account the costs of ensuring resilience and security. Consultants are expected to compare international trials and objectives with the UK's unique capabilities, providing insights into the UK's regulatory landscape and the potential returns from efficient, interference-free spectrum usage. The study aims to determine the specific AI algorithms suitable for the UK context and the societal benefits they could bring.
The research project seeks to address several key questions, including identifying relevant AI implementations for spectrum management over the next 5-10 years, evaluating the associated benefits and justifications for adoption, and determining the necessary data and steps for practical implementation. It will also explore the regulatory and policy implications of AI in spectrum management, the commercial viability of such systems, and the costs and timescales for implementation. Additionally, the project will assess the trade-offs between efficiency gains for Ofcom and the industry costs of developing and deploying these AI technologies, as well as the potential for collaboration fostered through AI adoption in spectrum management.
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Contact us
Reach out to the team beow for questions or comments about the study.
Sophie Greaves
Sophie Greaves is Head of Programme for Communications Infrastructure and Services at techUK, and oversees the UK Spectrum Policy Forum.
Jaynesh Patel
Jaynesh Patel is Head of Telecoms and Spectrum Policy, leading the Communications Infrastructure and Services Programme at techUK and overseeing the UK Spectrum Policy Forum.
Tales Gaspar
Tales has a background in law and economics, with previous experience in the regulation of new technologies and infrastructure.
Matthew Wild
Matthew joined techUK in August 2023 as a Programme Assistant.
