Communications industry regulator Ofcom has announced that broadcast transmission spectrum due to become available in 2012 will be divided by a market-led auction.The spectrum, which will be up for grabs following the switch off of analogue television, will be suitable for a range of digital services, including ultra-fast wireless broadband and wireless microphones.
According to Ofcom, demand for spectrum, which is a finite resource, is "growing continually" as a result of changes in technology and consumer trends.
Described as a "digital dividend", the auction will see the sale of the highest quality spectrum likely to be released in the UK over the next ten to 20 years.
Ofcom's objective in making the sale market-led is to ensure that it delivers the maximum benefit for consumers and citizens in the UK, and the decision follows "an extensive programme of research", it said.
The auction will give users the freedom to decide how the spectrum is used, as well as provide clear incentives to utilise it efficiently, it added.
According to the regulatory body, the planned auction, which will occur in 2009, will encourage innovative technologies and services, greater choice and will bring a great deal of money to the UK economy over a 20-year period.
Ofcom chief executive Ed Richards commented: "We can expect the benefits of the digital dividend to include more choice, fresh competition and technological innovation."
Firms in the US are currently gearing up for a similar auction of airwaves, which is set to take place on January 24th.
Among those expected to bid are Google, Verizon Wireless, the Vodafone Group and AT&T.
