Auction 'will take place'

7 April 2008

An auction of existing radio spectrum by Ofcom is set to take place later in the year, enabling firms to open up broadband and 3G services.

If the plans come to fruition, spectrum on the 2010-2025 MHz and 2500-2690 bands will become available, so that service providers can opt how to use it without impacting on quality.

Various solutions could become possible on the spectrum, including mobile broadband, Wi-Max and 3G offerings.

A partner looking after spectrum policy at Ofcom Philip Rutnam noted that the move should be a good one for consumers looking to get more competitive deals.

"The release of the 2.6 GHz radio spectrum will create opportunities for fresh innovation, new services and competition for the benefit of consumers in the UK," he commented.

An official at the BBC, Ashley Highfield, recently warned internet providers not to restrict people's use of the iPlayer and said the service should remain free of charge.

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