Uruguay announced preparations are underway for a 5G spectrum auction in the first quarter of 2021, according to telecoms regulator Ursec.
BN Americas reported, the regulator will give operators permission to carry out 5G pilots using temporarily assigned spectrum in the 26GHz band, announced Ursec president Mercedes Aramendia.
“But we are aware that there is much to be done. What we are working on now is developing a plan that we hope will be finalized during the first quarter of next year, which refers both to 5G, but also to actions aimed at ensuring that everyone can have quality connectivity,” said Aramendia.
Progression in the network standard had been made with state-owned operator Antel launching a pre-commercial 5G network around the city of Montevideo and other cities using spectrum in the 28GHz band.
The watchdog is also considering releasing spectrum in the 3.5-3.6GHz range for 5G services, which is the prime band for 5G in most countries, noted BN Americas.
“We understand it is key to work on the expansion of connectivity, which is the reason why we believe it is essential to coordinate the awarding of spectrum, harmonise its management and seek an efficient use of the asset”, added Aramendia.
