Internet service providers acquire more spectrum, supporting better Internet services in rural regions
May 12, 2015 – Ottawa – Industry Canada
Canada's latest spectrum auction has put more valuable spectrum—a public resource on which wireless information travels—in the hands of wireless companies in all regions of the country to deliver world-class services to Canadians.
Industry Minister James Moore today announced the list of provisional licence winners in the 2500 MHz auction. Nine companies acquired spectrum in the auction, which raised a total of $755.37 million.
Spectrum in the 2500 MHz band is ideal for providing broadband services in rural areas, and it can also deliver fast, reliable service on the latest smartphones and tablets.
With the conclusion of the 2500 MHz auction, the amount of spectrum available to provide mobile services to consumers has grown by almost 60 percent since early 2014. This is the largest amount of spectrum ever released in such a short time in Canada, allowing Canadians and their families to benefit from the latest technologies and world-class services.
The amount of commercial mobile spectrum in the hands of new competitors is now at approximately 25 percent of the total available—a massive increase from 2006, boosting competition in Canada's wireless sector.
Jake Enwright
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Industry
343-291-2500
Media Relations
Industry Canada
343-291-1777
media-relations@ic.gc.ca
