FCC Concludes Auction for Spectrum Licenses in the 2.5 GHz Band

According to news reports by Multichannel News, Telecompetitor, and other outlets, the FCC's competitive bidding auction of 2.5 GHz spectrum licenses has concluded. After 73 rounds, the completed auction apparently raised close to $428 million, subject to discount for certain bidding credits provided by the Commission's rules. The auction reportedly yielded 7,872 winning license bids, and 145 licenses drew no bids.

Importantly, the Commission concluded the 2.5 GHz spectrum auction in a timely manner. Attention should now be directed toward making more spectrum available for private commercial and personal use, including for commercially licensed use. As pointed out in my August 2 blog post, the next swath of lower 3 GHz spectrum, as well as the 4 GHz and 7-8 GHz bands, are candidates for repurposing and licensing for commercial use. Also see my February 2021 Perspectives from FSF Scholars, "Fast Action on the Lower 3 GHz Band Will Secure America's 5G Future."