Ofcom's plans to enable release of new spectrum for future mobile devices

Ofcom has published plans to enable the release of new spectrum for future generations of mobile devices. The UHF strategy statement that can be found here explains the steps Ofcom intends to take to increase mobile broadband capacity by drawing on the 700 MHz frequency band, which is currently used for digital terrestrial television (DTT), as part of likely future spectrum harmonisation across Europe and the rest of the world.

Ofcom intends to ensure that DTT can continue to deliver its important benefits using alternative spectrum (assuming existing frequencies are released for mobile broadband) – without the need for a second television switchover. These changes are unlikely to take place before 2018 at the earliest.

Over the coming years, Ofcom will plan and prepare to ensure any changes take place in the best interests of UK citizens and consumers.