Apple Rus, acting in the interests of Apple, claims in Russia for frequency bands in the range of 6.2-8.2 GHz, writes "Vedomosti" with reference to materials for the meeting of the State Commission on Radio Frequencies (SCRF).

According to the publication, frequencies are allocated to test the electromagnetic compatibility of ultra-wideband short-range wireless devices with other radio equipment. The allocation of bands for Apple is to be approved at the GKRCH meeting on November 23. The permit will be valid until October 1, 2021.

As a specialist familiar with the company's plans explained to Vedomosti, the matter concerns the tests of the Ultra Wide Band (UWB) technology, which is supported by the iPhone 11, released by Apple in 2019, and the iPhone 12. According to the developer's plan, this technology will eventually replace Bluetooth. UWB allows you to achieve faster data rates, as well as triple the distance over which devices can communicate.

UWB allows you to "point" (without entering a password, as is the case with Bluetooth) to transfer data to nearby devices. Apple is currently the only company promoting UWB. Other manufacturers are watching what it does: if the technology proves to be effective, then over time it can really replace Bluetooth, Telecom Daily CEO Denis Kuskov says.

Experts note that the legalization of UWB in Russia is more of a groundwork for the future. In their opinion, UWB has certain prospects in the market due to its low power consumption and high accuracy of geolocation determination.

Apple tried to legalise UWB in Russia last year and submitted an application to the State Committee for Radio Frequencies for the allocation of frequencies in the 6 GHz range. However, then it was refused, since the ranges overlap with those in which radars operate in Russia.

Original (in Russian)