The Spanish government has delayed plans to auction spectrum in the 694MHz-790MHz (700MHz) spectrum – referred to as the ‘second digital dividend band’ – after concerns were raised by telecoms operators and Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) service providers. Telcos have expressed ‘operational and financial’ concerns, while free-to-air television broadcasts are viewed as essential as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic.
A Royal Decree was signed in March 2019, kick-starting the release of the 700MHz band, which was scheduled to be freed up by the end of this month. The European Commission timetable expected 700MHz services to be made available for mobile broadband across Europe by 30 June 2020, although this deadline is now expected to be postponed in light of current events.