Directive and decision on 3G in GSM frequencies adopted

The Directive modernising the GSM Directive to allow 3G and 4G in GSM frequencies has been published yesterday in the Official journal. This follows the agreement of July (see post below). The Commission also published a decision which set outs the technical parameters for the co-exietnce of 2G and 3G systems in the same bands.

The new rules allow the introduction of UMTS in the GSM bands. LTE will alos be allowed by the Commission when it has proven compatible with GSM and UMTS.

The process of opening up frequencies is already on its way (if not achieved) in numerous EU countries (e.g., Belgium, France, Sweden). National administrations have six months to transpose the Directive and to implement the Decision so that the GSM spectrum bands are effectively made available for 3G.

In this process, the NRAs must examine possible distortions of competition, resulting from uneven spectrum allocation. Thus, it might trigger a refarming of the frequencies.