Magyar Telekom, Telenor Hungary, Vodafone renew 900MHz, 1800MHz spectrum for USD505m

Hungary’s National Media & Infocommunications Authority (Nemzeti Media- es Hirkozlesi Hatosag, NMHH) has completed the auction of 900MHz/1800MHz mobile spectrum licences valid from April 2022 to April 2037 for a total price of HUF150.2 billion (USD505 million), including HUF73.8 billion for 900MHz frequencies and HUF76.4 billion for the 1800MHz band. The spectrum – all in current usage on 2G/3G/4G networks – was divided between Hungary’s three leading cellcos: Magyar Telekom secured 16MHz in the 900MHz band and 40MHz in the 1800MHz band, compared to Vodafone (18MHz at 900MHz, 40MHz at 1800MHz) and Telenor (26MHz at 900MHz, 40MHz at 1800MHz). Each 15-year licence may be extended for a further five years.