OTTAWA — The list of applicants for the upcoming AWS-3 and 2500 MHz wireless spectrum auctions, revealed yesterday by Industry Canada, is comprised mostly of national and regional incumbents, with a couple of smaller players thrown into the mix.
In total, 13 Canadian companies have submitted applications to compete in the AWS-3 and 2500 MHz spectrum auctions, expected to begin this spring.
Bell, Rogers, Telus, MTS, Vidéotron, Wind, Eastlink and TBayTel have all applied to take part in both the AWS-3 and 2500 MHz spectrum auctions. Mobilicity and SaskTel plan to bid on AWS-3 spectrum only, while Xplornet, Calgary-based CCI Wireless and Yellowknife-based SSi Micro have applied to bid only on 2500 MHz spectrum.
“Spectrum is a vital public resource and the invisible infrastructure on which wireless information travels. For new wireless companies to be able to compete and provide choice to Canadians, spectrum is essential. Less than one year ago, nearly 90% of spectrum was held by Canada's largest wireless companies. Due to these auctions, by May 2015 we expect new wireless companies to hold over 25% of the total wireless spectrum available,” said Industry Minister James Moore, in a statement released by Industry Canada.
“As a result of our actions, new players have entered the wireless market and prices have fallen on average by 22%. We look forward to these upcoming spectrum auctions creating even more choice, lower prices and better service for Canadian consumers.”
For more information, please see the complete list of applicants for the AWS-3 auction and the 2500 MHz auction.
