BT, Sky and Virgin Media could bid in 4G auction
The companies could look to acquire some of the 800MHz and 2.6GHz spectrum bands.
BT, Sky and Virgin Media have been tipped to bid against the UK's network operators in the upcoming 4G spectrum auction.Speaking to Mobile Today, Strategy Analytics telecoms analyst Phil Kendall said it may make sense for the three internet service providers to have access to their own mobile infrastructure.
"Any significant telco in the UK is looking at this and thinking 'Is there a role for me?' and looking for partners overseas to come in as a consortium partner," he remarked.
However, Mr Kendall warned any prospective new entrants to the sector will need to be prepared to spend substantial amounts of money if they are to have any success in the auction.
Under Ofcom's plans, the 800MHz and 2.6GHz airwave bands will be sold off in early 2012.
A system of caps and floors has been suggested in a bid to prevent any individual provider from controlling too much - or too little - of the spectrum.
