1.4 GHz spectrum has been harmonised for international mobile telecommunications (“IMT”) use, and 40 MHz of this spectrum (1452-1492 MHz) has already been deployed by mobile network operators (“MNOs”) in the UK. We have decided to auction the 25 MHz upper block (1492-1517 MHz) for mobile use.
We expect that deployment of this spectrum will improve the performance of mobile services for consumers, particularly where coverage is patchy, for example indoors and in rural areas.
We have published our decisions relating to how we will make the 1492-1517 MHz spectrum available, including coexistence measures designed to reduce the risk of blocking interference to users in the adjacent 1.5 GHz band.
We expect to publish the draft Auction Regulations consultation in summer 2026.
We expect to auction the 1492-1517 MHz spectrum in the first half of 2027.
Updates and clarifications
On 17 February 2025, we republished the ‘Ports and Airports proposed PFD limited and Coordination zone shapefiles’ with additional files to ensure their compatibility with relevant GIS mapping software.
On 5 February 2025, we republished “Consultation: Award of 1492-1517 MHz spectrum for mobile services” to correct an error in Table 5.1.
Responses to our 18 July 2025 consultation
Responses to our 4 February 2025 consultation
Responses to our 18 October 2023 call for input
Contact us
Spectrum Awards
Ofcom
Riverside House
2A Southwark Bridge Road
London SE1 9HA