Switzerland Considers New 3g License Tender

Switzerland's Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM) has launched a public consultation on the possibilities of allocating unused 3G radio spectrum. By doing so, OFCOM wishes to enable interested parties to give their comments and to determine the needs and intentions of the players concerned.

The consultation period runs until 2 November 2007.

In order to clarify the needs and intentions of the parties concerned, the consultation includes question on topics such as licensing, market development, requirements for the available frequencies, environmental protection and area planning.

An invitation to tender could be issued during 2008.

The Federal Court's decision of 26 October 2006 confirmed the revocation of the UMTS licence awarded to 3G Mobile. Since that time, some 30 MHz in the UMTS core band has been available. In addition, as of 1 January 2008, a further 190 MHz will be available in the 2.5 GHz band (the UMTS extension band) in Europe for the provision of mobile broadband services. In an initial phase, it is envisaged to award one licence in the UMTS core band. An award in the UMTS extension band may follow.

Posted to the site on 20th September 2007