Ofcom to auction L-band slots in April

Ofcom has confirmed that it plans to auction radio spectrum suitable for a range of services, including mobile television and satellite radio.
A number of possible uses of the 1452 – 1492 MHz band, the so-called “L-Band”, have been identified including:mobile multimedia services including mobile TV (which could be deployed using a variety of technologies); satellite digital radio; and broadband wireless access or high-speed internet on the move.
The release of the spectrum in the 1452 – 1492 MHz band is part of a wider programme to release around 400 MHz of prime spectrum. Other awards in this programme include the digital dividend – the spectrum that will be freed-up through the switch to digital television – and the 2.6 GHz band.
The spectrum, which is available over much of Europe, will be released on a technology and service neutral basis, allowing users the flexibility to decide what technology to use, what services to offer and to change their use of the spectrum over time. All licences will be tradable.
Ofcom also announced that the provisional deadline for applications is 10 April 2008, with the online auction likely to start at the end of April.
Source: Ofcom website
Item added: 23rd March 2008