Vodafone has acquired packages “C” and “G” in the 800 MHz and 2600 MHz frequency bands in the context of the successfully completed NMHH tenderers for a total of HUF 30.2 billion. Package “C” acquired by the operator includes a 2x10 MHz duplex frequency block, which was auctioned off by the NMHH with the primary objective of expanding mobile broadband coverage in Hungary. Vodafone has committed to deploying coverage in 81.64 percent of all Hungarian localities within three years using the new set of frequencies. Earlier network developments and the acquired new capacities will enable Vodafone to further boost the speed of broadband services across its national network with 98.4 percent coverage. Vodafone acquired four 2x5 MHz duplex blocks in package “G”, giving it control over 40 percent of the 2600 MHz spectrum, which will open the door for further capacity increases in densely populated localities in addition to better geographic coverage.

Vodafone has acquired 31 percent of the spectrum auctioned off in the tender, increasing its nationally occupied bandwidth by 87 MHz. The NMHH attaches particular importance to giving a renewed boost in coverage and capacity expansion for mobile broadband services, thereby fostering competition on the mobile market. The larger the geographical coverage and the faster the data traffic, the more secure a country’s digital network. These are also fundamental interests for Hungarian consumers and the national economy, allowing greater uploading and downloading speeds and accelerating the rise of an information society made up of domestic users. As a result, subscribers will be on equal footing for accessing state-of-the-art broadband services at affordable rates, regardless of their location.

After signing the contract, Vodafone Hungary CEO Diego Massidda explained that Vodafone will shortly increase speed and capacity on its broadband mobile internet network, current boasting remarkable coverage of 98.4 percent, using the new frequencies. Vodafone, which has invested nearly HUF 450 billion locally, is committed to supporting the emergence of a Digital Hungary; in this context, the recently concluded frequency tender will see state-of-the-art mobile services become accessible at greater speeds and capacities in most parts of Hungary. “These steps will significantly boost Hungary's competitiveness”, said Diego Massidda, CEO of Vodafone Hungary.