The National Media and Infocommunications Authority’s Spectrum Auction is Underway

Published: 5 August 2011

The Office of the National Media and Infocommunications Authority, Hungary (NMHH) has announced an auction for the right of use of a 10.8 MHz block of spectrum in the 900 MHz (E-GSM) band. The spectrum will allow access to state-of-the-art, third and fourth generation mobile services, with a potential to increase broadband coverage even further.

In compliance with European Union law, necessary legislative amendments have recently been made, allowing for the operation of next-generation broadband mobile data transmission services in the 900 MHz band in Hungary. 

The first milestone of the legislative process was the decree issued by the President of the National Media and Infocommunications Authority, Hungary which, effective from April 1, 2011, introduced a new frequency fee system aimed at promoting investment. Moreover, by amending the legislation on spectrum allocation, in compliance with the European Union's GSM Directive, free capacities in the expanded 900 MHz (E-GSM) band are now available for auction. Additionally, as a result of successful coordination negotiations held between the NMHH and neighbouring countries, frequencies to be licensed can now be fully utilised along national borders as well.

The Office of the National Media and Infocommunications Authority, Hungary has therefore announced an auction for the right of use of a 10.8 MHz block of spectrum in the E-GSM band, related to the provision of mobile communications services.

The auction of the spectrum block will enable winning mobile operators to offer state-of-the-art mobile services in areas where adequate broadband coverage was thus far lacking. 
The spectrum band up for auction can be utilised in a technology-neutral manner, allowing for the installation and operation of GSM, UMTS, LTE, or WiMAX mobile networks.

When a new entrant acquires a right of use for the 900 MHz (E-GSM) band, it will also obtain an option for the purchase of further spectrum blocks in the 1800 MHz and 2100 MHz bands.  

The NMHH's primary objective is to effectively utilise the available spectrum capacity, promote network development by operators, improve the quality of services and protect consumer interests by boosting competition on the mobile market.

The auction notice and all related documentation are available on the Authority's website (www.nmhh.hu).

Budapest, 5th August, 2011

National Media and Infocommunications Authority
Office of the Spokesperson

Location/address: 1015 Budapest, Ostrom u. 23-25.
Phone: (36 1) 457 7945
E-mail: sajto@nmhh.hu
Web: www.nmhh.hu | www.mediatanacs.hu
Blog: http://mediatanacs.blog.hu
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