The Independent Communications Authority of SA (ICASA) today withdrew its invitation to industry to apply for spectrum in the 2.6GHz and 3.5GHz band, effectively canning SA's first high-frequency radio spectrum auction.
The sought-after spectrum is ideally located for high-speed broadband connectivity, specifically for LTE and WiMax technologies. ICASA councillor, Marcia Socikwa, says since releasing the first invitation to apply, the authority had been inundated by requests from the industry seeking clarity on the finer details of the licensing process.
As a result, the auction has been called off in favour of a more consultative process dependent on the appointment of an experienced spectrum auctioneer.
The authority also indicated rapid technological advancements reveal that LTE technology is emerging as the more favoured technology in industry; a change that would have to be accommodated for in a new invitation to apply (ITA).
“While in the past WiMax was the clear favourite, recently published literature suggests that market sentiment towards LTE has increased, suggesting that further consultation is necessary,” explained Socikwa.
ICASA has committed to a more consultative process with industry and says the next ITA will be issued before the end of this financial year.
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