The FCC has completed the AWS-3 spectrum auction, raising USD 44.9 billion from the sale of 65 MHz of frequencies in the 1,700 MHz band for mobile services. The proceeds were the most ever raised from a spectrum auction in the US, according to FCC chairmn Tom Wheeler. Part of the proceeds will go towards government programmes to expand broadband access and the remainder to reducing the state budget deficit.
AT&T and Verizon are thought to be the main participants in the auction, and T-Mobile and Dish Network are also likely to have participated. Sprint said earlier it would not bid. The FCC will release details of the winners for each of the local licences later. It said the downlink frequencies at 2155-2180 MHz will be immediately available for use after licenses are granted. The other frequencies in the 1755-1780 MHz and 1695-1710 MHz bands will be available gradually as government users vacate the spectrum.
