700MHz Auction: What’s Really Up For Grabs, And Why It Won’t Be Monopolized

The FCC’s latest release may actually become this year’s top read. The rules for the upcoming 700 MHz auction is apparently riveting and controversial.

One large chunk of spectrum has a number of open access conditions attached to it while the other requires bidders be active in the public/private public safety network. But the new rules don’t restrict the same company from buying both of these slots. There are also three other large blocks that will be up for auction.

It is possible for one company to come in and purchase all 5 blocks of spectrum but it’s highly unlikely that anyone would as the built-out requirements for each segment are quite expansive and unique, meaning the work involved in just one segment will require a very specialized committment.

Expect the C block to garner the most attention as it could be used for a national high-speed wireless service and many of the telecoms have already expressed their interest.
Via [arstechnica.com]

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