United Kingdom

event 30.10.2025 person Admin United Kingdom

The United Kingdom has finalized the allocation of high-frequency FR2 millimetre-wave (mmWave) spectrum, marking a significant step toward enhancing 5G network capacity and supporting future wireless technologies. The communications regulator has completed the multi-stage process, confirming the distribution of spectrum resources among the country’s major mobile network operators.

Allocation Overview

Three national operators — EE, O2, and VodafoneThree — each secured a total of 1.8 GHz of spectrum, consisting of 800 MHz in the 26 GHz band and 1 GHz in the 40 GHz band. Each company has contributed £13 million to the UK Treasury as part of the licensing process.

Frequency Positioning

The final stage of the auction determined the exact frequency positions assigned to each operator. As no overlapping preferences occurred during this phase, no additional fees were applied. The licences have been issued for the following frequency ranges:

• EE: 26.7 – 27.5 GHz and 41.5 – 42.5 GHz
• O2: 25.1 – 25.9 GHz and 40.5 – 41.5 GHz
• VodafoneThree: 25.9 – 26.7 GHz and 42.5 – 43.5 GHz

Future Use and Deployment

Following the completion of the process, all three operators are now authorized to deploy services in accordance with their licence conditions. The newly assigned mmWave spectrum is expected to play a crucial role in supporting ultra-high-capacity 5G connectivity, enabling applications such as fixed wireless access, advanced industrial networks, and next-generation smart city infrastructure.

This auction concludes the United Kingdom’s initial mmWave spectrum distribution, paving the way for expanded coverage, faster data speeds, and new digital innovation opportunities across the country.

All the details are reflected in our database and can be found here: https://www.spectrum-tracker.com/United-Kingdom

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