Fourth-generation (4G) wireless frequencies are set to be auctioned this summer by France even though the particulars on price and terms have yet to be confirmed.
The French Industry Minister, Eric Besson, made the announcement that the details on price and terms for the 4G network – the fourth-generation of cellular wireless standards – had yet to be decided but hinted that the government was aiming for around €2bn, he told Reuters.
He said they were “confident” and that the frequencies were “very high-quality”.
Superfast broadband
Informa Telecoms & Media has predicted that 2011 will be dominated a number of key issues, namely, the rise and rise of the smartphone and wreslting the superfast broadband initiative away from cable operators, according to a forecast for next year.
When the 4G auction takes place in France it is will draw the attentions of French telecom giants France Telecom, SFR and Bouygues respectively, who will compete to roll out the service, as Besson revealed that the frequencies will be sold in four lots – two of 10 megahertz (MH) and two of 5MH.
A 4G system would provide facilities such as ultra-broadband internet access, streaming television and gaming services.
