The Office of the Telecommunications Authority ("OFTA") announced today (29 June 2010) that China Mobile Hong Kong Corporation Limited has successfully bid for the radio spectrum in the 678 – 686 MHz band at the spectrum utilization fee ("SUF") of HK$175 million.

OFTA released the spectrum through auction to implement the "Framework for Development of Broadcast-type Mobile TV Services in Hong Kong" announced by the Government on 11 February 2010.

"The assignment of the spectrum in the 678 – 686 MHz band enables the provision of broadcast-type mobile TV services. This will enhance the development of the mobile market in Hong Kong, give consumers the choice to a wider range of high quality TV programs that are available in real time through mobile devices, and strengthen Hong Kong’s status as a world class wireless city," a spokesperson of OFTA said.

"China Mobile Hong Kong Corporation Limited, after payment of the SUF and submission of the performance bond, will be assigned the spectrum under a 15-year unified carrier licence to be issued by the Telecommunications Authority in July/August 2010. The licensee will be required to use at least 75% of the transmission capacity to deliver mobile TV content, and to provide service coverage to at least 50% of the Hong Kong population within 18 months from licence grant," the spokesperson of OFTA added.

Conducted on an Internet-based software platform, the auction commenced on 28 June 2010 and was completed on 29 June 2010 after a total of 18 bidding rounds over two days. Three bidders took part in the spectrum auction.

Office of the Telecommunications Authority
29 June 2010