New 4G and 5G spectrum auction aims to fix rural mobile not-spots
To improve mobile coverage across the UK, regulator Ofcom announced plans to hold new spectrum auctions offering mobile operators the 700 MHz band, as well as 3.6 GHz to 3.8 GHz band. The auction will take place in 2019 or early 2020. While the 700 MHz band is intended to boost 4G coverage across rural areas, the mid-frequency spectrum targets future 5G networks. Ofcom is also planning to require operators boost outdoor coverage with over 500 new base stations as part of the auction.