America Seeks Unified Strategy for 6 GHz Wi‑Fi Band as China Prepares 2027 ITU Meet

A bipartisan delegation of nineteen members of the U.S. Congress wrote to senior officials in the State Department, the Commerce Department and the Federal Communications Commission on July 29, requesting a coordinated American approach for the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference in Shanghai. Led by Rep. April McLean Delaney and Rep. J. Obernolte, the group warned that China could leverage the conference to tilt global spectrum policy toward a licensed‑only model, jeopardising the unlicensed 6 GHz band that powers modern Wi‑Fi.

The 6 GHz band is a cornerstone of American broadband usage, with approximately ninety percent of smartphone data traffic in the United States transmitted via Wi‑Fi connections that rely on this spectrum. Lawmakers stressed that preserving unlicensed access is essential for maintaining the United States’ leadership in wireless innovation, 6G research and satellite communications.

The letter asked for a detailed briefing on how the administration is aligning senior staff across agencies, the resources devoted to the conference, and whether a dedicated U.S. ambassador will be appointed to safeguard American interests at the ITU meeting. It also called for an update on diplomatic outreach to partner countries, notably Mexico and Brazil, which have occasionally aligned with China on the 6 GHz debate.

“America must not allow China to dictate the future of the global spectrum,” Delaney said. “A cohesive, collaborative strategy with our allies is the only way to protect our technological edge and economic prosperity.”

The International Telecommunication Union will host the conference, and the Internet & Television Association praised the congressional action, noting that a fully open 6 GHz band is crucial for next‑generation Wi‑Fi deployment, consumer experiences and business operations. The lawmakers set a deadline of August 22 for a written response from the administration.