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Digital Britain set for mobile broadband boost

The UK is set for a major mobile broadband boost, as the government reveals plans to roll out next-generation wireless services and enhanced 3G coverage to as much as 90 per cent of the country.

In a report entitled "Digital Britain", officials set out their intention to implement recommendations made by independent spectrum broker Kip Meek in May, covering 3G licences and spectrum auctions.

Digital Britain minister Stephen Timms says the report's proposals will free parts of the digital spectrum for mobile broadband and 3G to offer more sophisticated services and applications, boosting "jobs, growth and competitiveness" in the process.

"It's vital that we make the best use of the digital spectrum and ensure that sufficient bandwidth is available for sophisticated next-generation services and not just calls and texts," he continues.

"This package will free up the airwaves for the expansion of wireless and 3G services, increasing their reach to consumers and businesses across as much as 90 per cent of the country, including rural communities."

Mobile operators and telecoms firms will be able to provide new high-speed services thanks to the imminent availability of radio frequencies made available by the digital switchover of television broadcasts.