4G offers user faster mobile data speeds than existing 3G services.
Existing networks O2 and Vodafone are expected to bid. Orange and T-Mobile owners EE have already launched 4G services on their existing spectrum and will sell some unused spectrum space to Three.
Ofcom has set a combined £1.3 billion reserve price for the spectrum.
The timetable for the auction is:
11 December: Prospective bidders submit their applications to Ofcom together with an initial deposit.
December: Applications are reviewed to determine who can go on to bid in the auction.
January: Bids will be placed online over secure internet connections, using software that has been developed specifically for the auction.
February/March: Bidders will be informed what they have won and its cost.
February/March: Licence fees are paid and licences granted.
May/June: New 4G services expected to go live.
Ed Richards, Ofcom Chief Executive, said: “Today marks an important shift from preparation to the delivery of the auction, which will see widespread 4G mobile services from a range of providers.
“The entire industry is now focused on the auction itself, with a shared goal of delivering new and improved mobile services for consumers.”
