To help improve mobile services and give more people access to 5G networks, Ofcom is releasing 200 MHz of spectrum in two frequency bands:

• 80 MHz of spectrum in the 700 MHz band; and
• 120 MHz of spectrum in the 3.6-3.8 GHz band.

Earlier this year Ofcom confirmed the rules for how the auction will work. The regulator has now made the formal regulations that are necessary for the auction to take place.

Ofcom has also published supporting documents for prospective bidders. These include updated guidance on the auction process, an updated information memorandum and the application form all parties wishing to take part will need to submit to Ofcom. Ofcom says that it currently expects to receive applications over two days, from 2-3 December 2020, and that bidding will start in January 2021.

The timing of next steps will be kept under review, in light of Covid-19 developments. Ofcom will also confirm the dates for receiving applications by publishing a formal notice on its website, after the regulations come into force. To read Ofcom’s statement in full, click here.