The UK regulator Ofcom has launched a public consultation on proposed amendments to the Wireless Telegraphy (Exemption) Regulations 2021, introducing new licence exemptions and updating technical conditions for various wireless devices.

The proposal includes expanding licence exemptions for short-range devices (SRDs), introducing new exemptions for Group B Autonomous Maritime Radio Devices (AMRDs), coastal radio training systems, and Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) equipment operating in the 5.8 GHz band. Additionally, it updates technical conditions and extends frequency ranges for High Density Fixed Satellite Service (HDFSS) systems in the 28 GHz band.

These changes aim to reduce regulatory burdens, promote innovation, and improve efficient spectrum use, while aligning UK regulations with international standards. The consultation is open until January 22, 2026, after which Ofcom is expected to publish a final statement and implement the regulations within a reasonable timeframe.

This represents a medium-impact regulatory update, as it introduces new and updated licence-exempt regimes for multiple categories of wireless telegraphy equipment, while maintaining the overall regulatory framework and core spectrum management principles unchanged.

The impact is moderate because it primarily affects spectrum access conditions, technical requirements (RF, EMC-related coexistence), and regulatory obligations for manufacturers and operators, rather than introducing entirely new certification regimes or fundamentally altering telecom compliance structures.

However, it still requires stakeholders to review and adapt to updated interface requirements, new frequency conditions, and exemption rules, particularly for SRDs, FWA systems, maritime devices, and satellite terminals.

Key reasons for medium impact:

• Introduces new licence exemptions (FWA 5.8 GHz, AMRD Group B, training systems)
• Updates technical conditions for existing licence-exempt devices (SRDs, HDFSS)
• Expands frequency ranges for satellite services in 28 GHz band
• Removes licensing requirements for certain users (regulatory simplification)
• Aligns UK framework with international/CEPT standards
• Impacts manufacturers, operators, and service providers using affected bands
• Requires updates to technical compliance, product design, and deployment practices
• No introduction of new certification schemes (e.g. RED, safety directives remain unchanged)
• No fundamental change to overarching spectrum management framework

Who?

• Ofcom
• Wireless equipment manufacturers (SRDs, FWA, satellite terminals)
• Telecom operators and wireless internet service providers (WISPs)
• Maritime equipment users and providers
• Satellite service operators
• Compliance, regulatory, and certification teams
• Importers and distributors of wireless devices

Conclusion

The proposed regulations represent a targeted modernization of the UK’s licence exemption framework, focused on enabling innovation, reducing administrative burden, and improving spectrum efficiency. While they introduce meaningful updates across several wireless technologies, they do not fundamentally alter certification regimes or core regulatory structures.

Therefore, the proposal qualifies as a medium-impact regulatory update with operational and technical implications for industry stakeholders.