Independent regulator for the communications industry, Ofcom, has decided on a market-led approach as it plans to auction its highly sought-after UHF band.
As the radio spectrum is freed-up in coming years as a result of the digital switchover, it could result in ultra fast wireless broadband, more digital television channels and high definition broadcasts.
Ofcom chief executive, Ed Richards, outlined plans to auction most of the digital dividend (UHF band in the frequencies 470-862 MHz) in 2009 in packages aimed at providing the following uses:
- National digital terrestrial television in standard or high definition
- Cognitive radio
- High speed mobile broadband and mobile television
- Local television
- PMSE spectrum users
“The digital dividend will be one of the most significant and valuable spectrum releases in the UK for 20 years. Our approach is designed to maximise these considerable benefits for UK citizens and consumers as a whole" states Mr Richards. “We can expect the benefits of the digital dividend to include more choice, fresh competition and technological innovation.”
Philip Rutnam, Partner, Spectrum Policy Group, discusses the publication of the statement on the Digital Dividend Review in the following video briefing:
Source: Ofcom.org.uk
