AT&T wins $2.4bn bid for 5G spectrum license at the FCC Auction 103

	
Stakeholders and consumers may access 5G on unlimited wireless plans of AT&T.

	 
	
There was a 102 percent surge in spectrum strength as they propelled 39 GHz spectrum to 786 MHz.


AT&T has won the bid for 5G spectrum licenses amounting $2.4 billion, covering over 99% of the U.S. population at the FCC Auction 103. The winning bid is poised to boost continued improvements and developments to the wireless network.

AT&T was quoted saying that the existing spectrum enabled the telecom operator to boost coverage in 2019 and outdo its competitors to serve consumers, businesses and first responders in the U.S.

Stakeholders, including business and consumers may access 5G on unlimited wireless plans of AT&T, providing extra capacity and speed over high-band spectrum to serve places such as campuses, arenas and other high traffic areas in parts of 35 cities for customers.

President at AT&T Technology & Operations Scott Mair noted that winning the contiguous block of spectrum in Auction 103 will be instrumental in maintaining the 5G hegemony across the landscape.

According to reports, there was a 102 percent surge in spectrum strength as they propelled 39 GHz spectrum to 786 MHz. It is worth noting that Auction 103 didn’t happen before AT&T had bought FiberTower in a $207 million deal in 2018 which saw the company acquire 379 MHz of 39 GHz spectrum.

It was also reported that all 39 GHz licenses with AT&T before the auction were swapped for vouchers. The company allegedly spent around $2.4 bn in the auction, translating into $1.2 bn net of the vouchers. The value of FCC issued vouchers are believed to have been determined through the auction price for the PEAs wherein the pre-auction licenses were held.

Apparently, average spectrum depth held by AT&T in mmWave surged to over 1,040 MHz, following the addition to the mmWave spectrum.

Source credit:

https://www.telecomlead.com/5g/att-bolsters-5g-spectrum-for-2-4-bn-during-fcc-auction-103-94600