Ofcom has announced that the scheduled UK 5G spectrum auction has been delayed until March.
The spectrum had been due to take part this month but has been stalled due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
The UK regulator was planning to award the 700MHz and 3.6 to 3.8 GHz frequency bands at the spectrum.
Ofcom said it’s ‘now planning for the principal stage of the auction to begin in March 2021’.
BT is disappointed by the announcement, as confirmed in a company statement.
“We’re disappointed the auction will now be delayed although we understand the unique circumstances. The auction and subsequent release of spectrum remains central to the future rollout of mobile networks and 5G,” said is a BT spokesperson.
“The economy’s recovery from Covid-19 is dependent on resilient digital infrastructure and we urge Ofcom to resist any further requests for delays.”