Broadcasting spectrum could help high speed mobile broadband

Broadband and communications minister Stephen Conroy has announced the release of 126 MHz of broadcasting spectrum as a digital dividend, which could help with high speed mobile broadband availability in Australia.

Whilst mobile broadband services have undoubtedly provided many consumers with an invaluable service, allowing them to get online wherever and whenever they need to, there are still many improvements to be made to the networks to make their more efficient, faster, and more reliable.

Many mobile broadband providers will therefore welcome the recent announcement from the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, who has announced that 126 MHz of broadcasting spectrum is to be released as a digital dividend. Extensive public consultation was carried out prior to the decision being made.

The availability of the spectrum has occurred as a result of the digital switchover, and the switch to digital television is set to be completed by the end of 2013. Conroy said: “Once analog television signals have been completely switched off and the spectrum subsequently cleared of other users, 126MHz of spectrum will be freed-up.”

Conroy also said: “The ability to have high capacity internet access in a range of locations is proving valuable to users of 3G networks both in Australia and overseas, and demand is growing rapidly. Wireless broadband is an important complement to fixed line services, and the release of this spectrum will enhance and support the services that will be enabled by the Government’s investment in the National Broadband Network.”

Source – Minister