Portugal Proposes to Allow 3G at 900Mhz
The Portuguese telecoms regulator, Anacom has decided to open up the 900Mhz spectrum band to be used for 3G services. The regulator specifically has decided to abolish all technical constraints on how the GSM band is used, but does state that it expects this to be used explicitly for future UMTS services.
The new spectrum policy includes a sounding out of the market as to possible expressions of interest in the use of the part of the spectrum with frequency bands reserved for use by terrestrial mobile services (450 MHz, 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands), while maintaining a perspective of technological neutrality.
Additionally, the new policy ends the provision which had reserved the GSM spectrum in the 900 and 1800 MHz bands for the incumbent operators, where they could demonstrate the need for that spectrum. The regulator is now consulting on whether to open up that block for sale to new entrants, or keep it reserved for the incumbents.
A period of 20 working days (ending on 10 April 2007) has been set aside for this process, during which all interested parties can comment."
Posted to the site on 22nd March 2007
