AT&T is applying to hold a mobile 5G test in California ahead of its potential mobile 5G launch late this year.

The operator has applied to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for an experimental radio license to hold tests in Burbank, Calif. using 28GHz basestations and terminals, connecting within 100 meters of the basestation.

AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) plans to roll out 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) -compliant 5G in 12 markets by the end of the year, likely using 39GHz or 28GHz spectrum. It has named Atlanta; Dallas; and Waco, Texas as its initial 5G markets. (See AT&T Reveals Initial 5G Cities.)

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AT&T wants to start the test on May 15 and run it for a month. AT&T appears to be trying to open up its 28GHz tests and seems to be ramping up attempts to test 28GHz basestations. For instance, it has also applied for a similar test in Dallas, which was supposed to start in February but hasn't been approved yet.

The FCC is now on track to hold a 28GHz auction in November, opening up vast swathes of millimeter wave spectrum for 5G use in the next few years. (See Trump Bill Paves Way for US 5G Spectrum Auction Later in 2018.)

AT&T wants to show the tech off at its SHAPE conference un Los Angeles in early June.

— Dan Jones, Mobile Editor, Light Reading