Ofcom's 4G mobile auction consultation

Ernest Doku, technology expert at uSwitch.com, comments: "Ofcom's consultation on the sale of the 4G mobile spectrum should allow a fairer bidding process for the networks when the auction takes place in early 2012.

"It is essential that Ofcom sticks to a transparent process that allows smaller networks like Three an equal opportunity to acquire bandwidth and offer super-fast mobile connectivity, all the while ensuring that the majority of the UK is covered. A level playing field is essential for healthy competition.

"4G connectivity will offer mobile phones and tablets download speeds beyond those reached on even home broadband at present, and are likely to be a major battleground for the networks over the next few years.

"If the larger incumbent networks had been allowed to flex their wallets in the forthcoming auction, the smaller ones could well have been squeezed out of the race. Thankfully, Ofcom's proposals of checks and balances should ensure fair distribution of the 4G spectrum across all four operators.

"4G capabilities are the future of mobile broadband and could serve as a lifeline to those in rural areas - especially those who are continually let down by the current fixed line offerings. But it's a shame that a deadline of 2017 has been set for 4G to reach 95% of the UK. This means that rural areas could still have to live in broadband darkness for another five years."