Press Release: Commission proposes to boost mobile internet services with high-quality radio frequencies

On 2 February 2016 the European Commission presented a proposal to coordinate the use of the 700 MHz band for mobile services. It aimed to improve internet access for Europeans citizens and help develop cross-border applications.

In the 700 MHz band the proposal comprises a common schedule for making it effectively available for wireless broadband use under harmonised technical conditions, and related coordination measures in support of this transition.

In the sub-700 MHz band it proposes long-term priority for the distribution of audiovisual media services to the general public, along with a flexible approach for spectrum use to cater for different levels of digital terrestrial television (DTT) uptake in Member States.

• Primary Source

European Commission: DG Communication: RAPID: MEMO/16/206, 02.02.16: Questions and answers: radio frequencies http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_MEMO-16-206_en.htm

ESO: Background information: Commission renews attempt to harmonise spectrum rules http://www.europeansources.info/record/commission-renews-attempt-to-harmonise-spectrum-rules/

EurActiv, 02.02.16: Commission shakes up radio spectrum to lead on mobile internet http://www.euractiv.com/sections/digital/commission-shakes-radio-spectrum-lead-mobile-internet-321516

Reuters, 02.02.16: EU plans to coordinate a key mobile spectrum in Europe http://uk.reuters.com/article/us-eu-telecoms-spectrum-idUKKCN0VB14U

EUObserver, 05.02.16: EU rules on 700 MHz: technical issue or power grab? https://euobserver.com/digital/132153

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