On October 5, 2021, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) kicked off Auction 110, a mid-band spectrum auction offering licenses in the 3.45 GHz band. This auction is designed to foster the next generation of wireless, making 100 MHz of mid-band spectrum available this year for commercial use.
The first phase of the auction, the clock phase, started off with two rounds of bidding, ending day one at $672,410,700 in gross proceeds. There were 33 qualified bidders that participated in the first phase, of these bidders included AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.
“We are moving with record speed and collaboration to free up more mid-band spectrum for 5G,” said Jessica Rosenworcel, FCC Acting Chairwoman. “These airwaves are a critical part of unlocking the 5G promise everywhere in the country.”
The FCC stated, by law, the auction proceeds have to cover 100 percent of the anticipated sharing, relocation, and other costs for the incumbent users that are currently operating in the 3.45 GHz band. This means, the auction must generate approximately $14.77 million, according to an estimate provided by NTIA.
For updates or more information about the status of Auction 110, click here.