It is easy to predict how mobile service providers will use spectrum sharing to support 4G and 5G mobile services. It is less clear how enterprises might do so, though private enterprise networks (akin to the way enterprises now use Wi-Fi) or third party internet access are oft-mentioned possibilities.
In a 4G context, the clearest example is aggregation of licensed mobile spectrum with 5-GHz Wi-Fi spectrum to boost indoor internet access speeds.
MulteFire creates stand-alone LTE networks (private LTE) and might be used to support industrial applications (sensor and control networks) or to support neutral host infrastructure, where multiple mobile operators can use an enterprise transmission network to boost signal strength and speed inside a building, for example.
Most of the same advantages can be envisioned for 5G networks, including private 5G networks, boosting mobile network speeds indoors and outdoors and neutral host applications.
At a high level, spectrum sharing will have implications for business strategy. For starters, spectrum prices should fall, partly because so much new spectrum will be available, and partly because so much unlicensed spectrum will be a viable alternative.
The other key implication is that mobile platforms will, for the first time, be able to compete head to head with fixed networks in the internet access area.
