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19|12|07

Releasing more spectrum for new wireless services

Ofcom today announced further details of proposals for the release of spectrum, suitable for a range of new services such as mobile broadband and advanced wireless services.

Ofcom proposes to release the spectrum in the 2010-2025 MHz and 2500-2690 MHz bands (known as 2.6 GHz) on a technology and service neutral basis. This will allow organisations to decide how best to use the spectrum within certain minimum technical specifications to prevent harmful interference. In total 205 MHz will be available.

There are a number of potential uses of the spectrum including mobile broadband wireless services. These can offer high-speed, high-capacity mobile data connections enabling the delivery of advanced mobile services using technologies such as WiMAX or evolutions of 3G technology. In 2000 this spectrum was identified internationally for the future development of these services.

Details of the award

Ofcom is consulting on detailed rules for auctioning the spectrum in order to offer the maximum flexibility in the way that the bands can be used. Subject to ongoing analysis, Ofcom expects to make a statement early in 2008 and to hold the award in the summer. All licences are proposed to be tradable.

The proposals are part of a wider Ofcom programme to release around 400 MHz of prime spectrum to the market over the next few years, creating major opportunities for new innovation and competition in wireless services. Earlier this month Ofcom announced decisions to release the digital dividend, the prime spectrum that will be released through digital television switchover, and the so-called L-Band at 1452 - 1492 MHz.

In comparsion to other Ofcom spectrum awards for mobile applications, the properties of the spectrum at 2.6 GHz mean that operators will be able to deploy services using very high bandwidths.

Ofcom’s Chief Executive Ed Richards said: “This process will see the UK’s largest single release of spectrum suitable for a range of new wireless services including WiMAX. This is part of Ofcom’s process of releasing a significant amount of spectrum to the market for the benefit of citizens and consumers.”

The consultation closes on 1 February 2008 and can be found at: http://www.ofcom.org.uk/consult/condocs/2ghzrules/

Ends.

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