Mobile operators want Ofcom to stop SpaceX holding the whole of the UK’s 2GHz band
"Mobile operators want a second supplier alongside SpaceX’s Starlink in the 2GHz band to strengthen their bargaining position."
Ofcom is deciding how to reallocate the UK 2GHz mobile satellite band (MSS), which is standardised as 3GPP band n256 and is well suited to direct-to-device (D2D) services. EchoStar and Viasat hold the current rights, which expire in May 2027, and Ofcom has proposed extending them for 3 to 5 years while it settles on a long-term approach.
Starlink’s deal with EchoStar includes EchoStar’s international 2GHz rights, although neither company has said whether those rights cover use of the band in the UK, and Starlink’s comments about selling directly to customers have so far concerned the USA. We expect Ofcom to follow the EU and divide the band between several holders, leaving Starlink with a share of the band rather than all of it.
This article explores how Ofcom’s decision will impact competition in the UK mobile and satellite markets.
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