Government set to unlock mobile broadband regulations

The government is considering opening up the UK's wireless spectrum to encourage telecoms operators to take up the universal broadband service obligation.

According to the Digital Britain report, the UK is facing a "temporary roadblock" regarding the 800 MHz and 3G extension bands.

Plans are already in place to carve up the 48 MHz band, between 806 to 854 MHz, that currently carries the soon-to-be switched off analogue television signal.

However, communications watchdog Ofcom is evaluating the benefits of releasing the 800 MHz band alongside the extension bands at 3G at 2.6 GHz.

This could potentially save the UK a reported £2-3 billion during the next two decades and also drive greater innovation in wireless broadband services.

Equally, it would bring the UK into line with the rest of Europe, which is leading the way on opening up spectrum band.

Finland, Sweden, France and Switzerland have all committed to opening up the 27 MHz between 790 to 862 Mhz, which is commonly termed the 800 MHz band.