Headlines

Trading will not bridge the digital divide — by Martin Sims

A technology neutral approach to spectrum licensing is popular in Africa but there is little appetite for full liberalisation. Quite right too, says one of Europe’s leading liberalisers.

The FCC “TV Whitespace” controversy back under spotlight — by Martin Sims

In May 2004 the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) made a controversial proposal to better utilise the broadcast spectrum which never saw the light of day. It has now resurfaced and here former FCC employee, Michael Marcus, examines the detail.

National security impacts auction outcome — by Martin Sims

The US Federal Communication Commission’s (FCC) Advanced Wireless Service (AWS) auction closed this month with T-Mobile topping the bids at around $4.2 million but revenues generated may have been dampened by national security concerns.

All eyes on Europe's double D — by Martin Sims

The European Commission (EC) has been feeling its way in the dark as it moves to define a policy for future use of the digital dividend. A tentative position is emerging, but some stakeholders wonder if Commissioners are dreaming.

Critics unconvinced by FCC "white space" plans — by Martin Sims

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced plans for unlicensed devices to gain access to the coveted television broadcast spectrum below 900 MHz, but is this anything more than a ploy to appease Congress?

South Africa aims for 2010 digital kick off — by Martin Sims

The World Cup is driving South African policy makers to quickly define a strategy for digital migration with an unofficial target for dual illumination of the two networks set to begin in 2008.

Spectrum auctions: beware the minefield — by Martin Sims

Thinking about bidding for one of Ofcom’s upcoming spectrum auctions? Be warned - it is more complex than it looks.

NextGenTel wins Norway’s 2.3 GHz auction — by Martin Sims

It took a day and 16 rounds to conclude the Norwegian 2.3 GHz auction. NextGenTel made the highest bid forking out EUR 850 000 for its licence to use the frequencies 2301 to 2323 MHz.

Opinion: Evolution not revolution for Europe's radio spectrum arrangements — by Martin Sims

Competition is the only way to create spectrum flexibility in Europe and for its broadcasters that means distinguishing between content creation and delivery, argues Professor of Economics Gérard Pogorel.

PolicyTracker September e-Edition available for download — by Martin Sims

UK readers will be particularly interested in our exclusive report on the result of the GSM gateways case but our top story this month is the mounting pressure to harmonise the digital dividend.

Legal ruling gives boost to GSM gateways — by Martin Sims

The UK’s Competition Appeals Tribunal has dismissed claims by the regulator Ofcom that a banned technique used to cut the cost of calling mobile phones breached laws on the use of spectrum.

European Commission steps up pressure over digital dividend — by Martin Sims

Member states are being asked to specify their position on reallocating analogue TV frequencies as opinion shifts towards pan-European co-ordination.

PMSE spectrum users fear the future — by Martin Sims

Pan-European harmonisation of spectrum for Programme Making and Special Events is not an option, says Ofcom. What then is the future of UK radio mic users post digital switchover?

Danish authorities rethink spectrum management — by Martin Sims

Denmark has set in motion a revamp of its existing frequency plan, indicating a move away from a traditional command and control approach to a more flexible take on spectrum management.

Norway moves with the mobile times — by Martin Sims

The Norwegian communications regulator is to auction 22 MHz of 2.3 GHz spectrum next month in a move which could set the pace across Europe for voluntary harmonisation of the band for mobile broadband.

Plans for terrestrial services in fixed satellite bands meet resistance — by Martin Sims

Fixed satellite service operators occupying the bands being considered for the use of IMT-2000 systems look set to dig in their heels, but are they fighting a losing battle?

South African spectrum policy takes its cue from Europe — by Martin Sims

Demand for wireless services in South Africa is forcing policymakers to rethink the way radio spectrum is allocated but strong government intervention is likely to continue until the market is sufficiently competitive.

T-Mobile leads race in US spectrum auction — by Martin Sims

Nearly $800 million has been put on the table in just the first round of bidding for eagerly awaited prime mobile spectrum. The auction is expected to last months with analysts predicting a total yield of up to $15 billion.

WLAN, RFID, 3G: beware China — by Martin Sims

The Chinese authorities have agreed not to make WAPI a mandatory market access requirement for the time being but that is not to say that the country’s industrial policy is no longer of concern for Europe’s policy makers.

Prospects improve for mobile satellite operators — by Martin Sims

Mobile satellite service (MSS) operators could have their hands on prime spectrum by September providing agreement can be reached on what constitutes 'objective justification' for exclusive use.