Regulator Rundfunk und Telekom Regels (RTR) awards 14 packages in the 3600MHz and 26GHz frequency ranges
Austria’s Telekom Control Commission concluded the third auction of 5G frequencies covering the 26GHz (7 blocks) and 3600MHz (7 blocks) ranges and raising almost €25m. The auction proceeds for the 26GHz range amounted to €16.2 million, while the awarded frequency packages in the 3600MHz range reached around €8.5 million.
Magenta Telekom is paying over 10 million euros to acquire mobile frequencies. “We are very satisfied with the result, so we continue to secure our national pioneering role in the best network and invest in Austria as a location,” said Magenta Telekom CTIO Volker Libovsky.
He added: “The acquired national frequencies ensure the best network for future generations. With the additional regional frequencies for Vienna and Carinthia, we are increasing the quality and performance of our 5G networks. Our customers benefit directly from this commitment.”
A total of 7 blocks of 200MHz each were allocated from the 26GHz range. The minimum bid per block was €1.9m. The frequencies can be used until 31 December 2046. The successful bidders were A1 Telekom, T-Mobile and Hutchison. A1 acquired 2 blocks for a total of around €4.6m; T-Mobile acquired 2 blocks for a total of around €4.6m; and Hutchison acquired 3 blocks for around €6.9m.
For the first time, in connection with coverage requirements, the regulatory authority is allowing these frequencies to be switched off between midnight and 05:00am, provided there is no reduction in performance compared to daytime operation.
The frequencies in the 3600MHz range are remaining frequencies from the 5G pioneer band allocation from 2019, which were not allocated in some regions due to a lack of demand from regional providers. The regulator said they serve to connect end customers quickly and easily to the network infrastructure.
There were 7 blocks up for grabs, each with different frequency configurations for 7 different regions. The minimum bids for the 7 blocks totalled €2,330,500. The successful bidders were A1 Telekom and T-Mobile. A1 Telekom acquired frequencies in 4 regions for a total of around €2.6m. T-Mobile acquired frequencies in 3 regions for a total of around €5.9m. The frequencies can be used until 31 December 2039.
From a certain point in time, each frequency allocation holder is obliged to operate a certain number of locations using the frequency spectrum allocated to them in this procedure or to fulfil the coverage obligations associated with the allocation. The coverage obligations serve to ensure efficient use of the frequencies. RTR said failure to comply may result in penalties. The frequency allocation usually takes place within one month of the regulatory authority publishing the auction results.