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4G mobile broadband spectrum auction set for 2012
Spectrum to support the rollout of 4G will be auctioned off this year.
Service providers will battle it out to secure chunks of newly freed-up airwaves to support the advanced mobile broadband technology, with the first 4G networks expected to be rolled out in 2013.
The equivalent of about 75 per cent of the spectrum in use today will be available in the auction, representing an 80 per cent increase on the amount of spectrum up for grabs at the 3G auction, which took place 12 years ago.
At least 98 per cent of UK residents are set to gain access to mobile broadband under Ofcom's plans.
Ed Richards, the regulator's chief executive, said: "The 4G auction has been designed to deliver the maximum possible benefit to consumers and citizens across the UK."
The news comes shortly after an Everything Everywhere survey revealed 93 per cent of business leaders want 4G technology to be rolled out as soon as possible.