1 May, 2014
As substantial frequency spectrum will be made available in the next few years, the Singapore Government is seeking views from the public on how best to make Singapore a conducive place for mobile network operators (MNO) and mobile virtual network operators (MVNO) to set up shop in Singapore.
A consultation released by the Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) seeks feedback on, among others, a number of technical issues concerning the re-allocation of spectrum for mobile services, business models preferred by operators, potential MVNOs level of interest to enter the mobile market and the target market segments of potential MVNOs, the viability of a ‘Heavy/Full’ MVNO model versus other models, possible mechanisms to implement an MVNO-hosting framework, and the viability of regulatory or voluntary approach for MVNO-hosting MVNO and the incentives and spectrum band tie-in required. Presently, there are 13 MVNOs and they serve a very small market at under 1%.
In addition to MVNOs, IDA also seeks views from the public on, among others, the interest and viability for a new MNO to enter the market, and whether the market/technology/spectrum environment has changed favourably since the 2013 4G spectrum auction.
The consultation will also take into account the Heterogeneous Network (HetNet) that IDA is exploring to allow for seamless user experience across all mobile networks. Views are sought on the suitability of spectrum bands for HetNet deployment.
The firm is gathering views to feedback to the Singapore Government. The consultation started on 22 April 2014 and will end on 20 May 2014.
For further information, please contact:
Chia Ling Koh, Partner, ATMD Bird & Bird