Canada's wireless consumers have been clear that they want their government to make decisions that will lead to more choice, lower prices and better wireless service.

Today, the Government of Canada took another step in delivering for consumers by unveiling details of a new spectrum auction. Beginning next year, AWS-3 spectrum licences will be made available to wireless companies. AWS-3 spectrum is ideal for delivering fast, reliable service to Canadians on the latest smartphones, tablets and mobile devices.

Consistent with the Government's previous spectrum auctions, the AWS-3 spectrum auction will have rules designed specifically to put Canadian consumers first. These include:

• a large 30 MHz block of spectrum set aside for operating new entrants;
• strict provisions on the transfer of AWS-3 spectrum so that Canadian consumers benefit from increased competition in wireless services; and
• a simpler, shorter auction process that will provide operating new entrants with a visible path to high-quality spectrum.

Quick facts

• AWS-3 spectrum is ideal for delivering fast, reliable service on the latest smartphones, tablets and mobile devices.
• The AWS-3 band also includes 50 MHz of paired spectrum and is adjacent to the AWS spectrum auctioned in 2008.
• Consultations on the licensing of this spectrum will begin this summer.
• A streamlined licensing process will allow wireless providers to have the results of AWS-3 auction before the 2500 MHz auction, scheduled on April 14, 2015.

Quote

"Our government will continue to make decisions that will lead to more choice, lower prices and better service for Canadian consumers. Today's announcement will help operating new entrants acquire valuable new spectrum to help expand their networks and deliver fast, reliable service to Canadians. The rules for this auction, consistent with the ones for the 700 MHz and 2500 MHz auctions, will encourage more competition in the wireless market while ensuring the interests of consumers first."

– Industry Minister James Moore