The Netherlands is joining the LTE spectrum auction wave, as it prepares to offer frequencies in the 2.6 GHz band, which is suitable for launching LTE-based networks.
It is said that the auction will start on April 20th and that it has already attracted nine bidders. According to Telecompaper, of the 190 MHz made available, 135MHz will go to newcomers. Incumbent operators, KPN, Vodafone Netherlands and T-Mobile Netherlands will all be subject to a cap of 20 MHz, taking into account their existing holdings in the 900, 1800 and 2100 MHz spectrum.
Licenses for paired use will be offered in blocks of 2×5 MHz, whereas unpaired licenses are offered in blocks of 5 MHz. Regardless of demand, at least 25 blocks — of which 13 for paired use and 12 for unpaired use — will be available. Licenses are expected to be allocated by early June.
Rest of Europe is also working on allocating the 2.6 GHz spectrum for LTE-based networks. We’ll certainly have more to say about each country in the coming days and weeks…
[Via: MobileBusinessBriefing]