Romanian telecoms regulator ANCOM has invited interested parties to lodge an application for newly vacated spectrum in the 450MHz frequency band. Prior to 24 March 2013 the 453MHz-457.5MHz and 463MHz-467.5MHz spectrum blocks were used by CDMA operator Zapp (formerly Telemobil), a subsidiary of Cosmote of Greece.
Previously, in March 2012 telecoms regulator ANCOM launched a public consultation regarding a potential one-year extension of Zapp’s CDMA-450 licence, suggesting that owner Cosmote would have to pay EUR1 million (USD1.3 million) to extend its concession until 24 March 2013; the amount was calculated by ANCOM based on the historical value of the licence.
Since the completion of Cosmote’s takeover, Zapp’s subscriber base has gone into freefall, with the new owners making use of the operator’s infrastructure and spectrum, while allowing Zapp’s commercial presence to wane.