• Ofcom proposes to widen the UK's mobile broadband coverage from 95 per cent to 98 per cent;
• SimplifyDigital.com comments on the news.

 Ofcom has today kicked off its second consultation into the upcoming auction of 4G mobile broadband spectrum (mainly 800MHz and 2.6GHz bands).

The UK's telecommunications regulator will be discussing proposals to extend mobile broadband coverage from the formerly planned figure of 95 per cent to 98 per cent.

Other proposals will include mapping out the structure of the auction, for instance setting bidding caps for the leading mobile operators (such as O2, Orange, Vodafone and Everything Everywhere) and establishing minimum bids for providers who want to enter the 4G market.

Ofcom CEO, Ed Richards, stated:

"We are proposing a significant enhancement of mobile broadband, extending 4G coverage beyond levels of existing 2G coverage - helping to serve many areas of the UK that have traditionally been underserved by network coverage."

An array of firms and politicians has already commented on the news saying it would minimise the digital divide between "super-connected" locations and rural areas.

Head of Online at SimplifyDigital.com, Geoff Slaughter, welcomed the news:

"SimplifyDigital is very pleased with the proposal to broaden the UK's coverage to 98 per cent. This means that more rural communities will have access to mobile services and the ability to decide which provider they would like to sign up for, thus boosting competition.

"Having said that, some things should be considered. The UK doesn't need coverage to remain just a term; we need well-connected networks which would enable rural and remote communities to use the services delivered via broadband, such as distance learning, internet shopping or VoIP.

"The UK has waited for 4G services long enough - other countries are already benefiting from 4G services and in order to compete on an international scale we need to ensure that Ofcom doesn't face further delays so consumers as well as businesses start seeing superfast quality broadband as the norm rather than something to be desired."




Notes to editors:
News source:
http://www.broadbandwatcher.co.uk/ofcom-suggests-expanding-4g-to-98-per-cent-of-the-population-4336/

Simplifydigital.com offers a free and impartial "Switching Support" service for anyone looking to get a digital TV, broadband or phone package.
Its London-based impartial experts are available for free over the phone, to answer all those tricky questions and match the family's needs to the best deal available.
Simplifydigital.com's experts are available for free on 0800 1 388 388 seven days a week (Lines open Mon-Fri 8am-8pm; Saturday 9am-5:30pm; Sunday 10-5:30pm).
You can also use Simplifydigital.com's Ofcom accredited comparison engine online at www.simplifydigital.com.