Abstract

5G networks will address a variety of location specific deployment scenarios with stringent requirements for end-to-end service quality. This paper reviews the recent market and technology related trends in 5G deployments. To accelerate 5G deployment serving location specific needs arising in specific high-demand areas, the concept of 5G micro operators was recently proposed to open the mobile market for new entry. The micro operator concept allows different stakeholders to take a local operator role to deploy and operate small cell networks in specific premises and offer context related services and content. The local 5G micro operators can operate a closed network to serve its own customers, an open network for mobile network operators’ (MNO) customers or a mix of both. This paper expands the recent micro operator concept by identifying and addressing key regulatory elements related its introduction to the mobile communication market. These elements include the role of operator with rights and obligations, spectrum authorization for obtaining quality guaranteed spectrum, access rights to infrastructure, and building of indoor networks.