GSMA Welcomes Spanish Government Proposal to Release Digital Dividend Spectrum for Mobile Use

The GSMA, the body that represents the worldwide mobile communications industry, is pleased to learn that Spain’s industry ministry has announced that he will issue a decree to regulate the 790 to 862 megahertz band that will be freed up after Spain phases out analogue television. The Ministry announced that the spectrum would be available for uses other than analogue television as of January 2015 and which would likely be reserved for cellular use, especially for mobile Internet broadband.

“This is an extremely welcome move by the Spanish Government which will allow the Spanish people to realise the full potential of the digital dividend,” said Tom Phillips Chief Government and Regulatory Affairs Officer, GSMA. “The GSMA calls on other governments in Europe and across the world to act equally decisively and also allocate this spectrum band to mobile broadband services.  A harmonised approach will stimulate competition in the mobile market, encourage economic growth and deliver consumers new services at lower cost.”

The Spanish government’s decision reflects a growing momentum in Europe towards the establishment of a common harmonised frequency band for mobile broadband services. The GSMA has been working closely with governments and regulators in the region as well as other parts of the world to demonstrate the huge and measureable benefits of the digital dividend. This boost to the global economy at this critical time will also enable widespread Internet access, fuelling significant productivity enhancements and social benefits.

About GSMA:
The GSMA represents the interests of the worldwide mobile communications industry Spanning 219 countries and territories, the GSMA unites more than 750 of the world’s mobile operators, as well as 200 companies in the broader mobile ecosystem, including handset makers, software companies, equipment providers, Internet companies, and media and entertainment organizations. The Association’s members represent more than 3 billion GSM and 3GSM connections, around 86% of world’s mobile subscribers.

For further information please contact:
GSM Association: [email protected]