U.K. telecommunications regulator Ofcom unveiled proposals for the auction of its 2.6 GHz, or gigahertz, radio spectrum on Monday, which could be used to offer mobile phone and wireless internet services.
According to one analyst, the auction could see new telecommunications operators enter the U.K. market.
The proposed auctions - which could spark the U.K’s biggest single radio spectrum selloff - would make three spectrum bands available to operators and consequently could be used for mobile broadband services, such as high-speed, long-distance WiMAX internet, and mobile television services.
A spokesman for Ofcom said that, depending on how lengthy the industry-wide consultation process takes, auctions could begin at the end of 2007.
Ofcom’s Chief Executive Ed Richards said: “Releasing more spectrum to the market will create new opportunities for innovation in wireless technologies, promoting competition and driving convergence.”

Posted: 12|12|06 at 9:48 am. Filed under: UK News.