Switzerland is probably one of the most organized countries in the world. In that sense I was not surprised to learn that the country’s Federal Communications Commission (ComCom) has already instructed the Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM) to prepare the allocation of mobile radio frequencies which are either currently free or which will become free in the foreseeable future for tender in the course of the next year. The allocation of frequencies will take place by auction.
Current GSM and UMTS licences expire on 31 December 2013 and 2016 respectively, and the idea is to be ready when that happens. In addition, OFCOM also plans to release other frequencies from various mobile radio bands for the provision of mobile radio services.
There are two goals Swiss authorities try to achieve – enable any new operators to acquire mobile radio frequencies, and allow existing operators to equipping themselves with sufficient frequencies for the future.
OFCOM will now prepare the tender documentation and the design of the auction, whereas ComCom will decide on the next steps and is expected to launch the invitation to tender in the course of 2010. All interested companies will be able to participate…
[Via: CellularNews]