Who Controls Spectrum in the USA?

[Commentary] In the wake of the unprecedented boom in mobile broadband, pressure is building around the world for governments and regulators to act quickly and decisively to the frantic demand for more spectrum.

The telcos are leading the charge, but the broadcasters are lobbying for their case equally vigorously. The broadcasters do not necessarily need all the spectrum they currently have, but they view mobile broadband and telcos as competitors to their monopoly on video entertainment, so they will do everything to keep them out of that market for as long as possible. The result is that many others who need spectrum find themselves in the middle of this conflict. Because of high commercial interests, other sectors such as public safety, utilities, transport and infrastructure are also forced to review their business models. Simply asking for more spectrum and then possibly wasting it through a myriad of proprietary systems is no longer an option. Cooperation and coordination is required in sectors where egos and financial interest are clashing.

[Managing Director of Paul Budde Communication]