Launch of the award of mobile radio frequencies becoming available in 2029

Bern, 01.09.2026 — The Federal Communications Commission (ComCom) is launching the invitation to tender for a significant proportion of the mobile radio frequencies currently in use, which will become available and be awarded as of 1 January 2029. The primary objectives of the award are to maintain and further develop the three high-quality mobile communications networks and to foster competition in the mobile communications market. The award is expected to take place in the second quarter of 2027 by means of an auction.

Today's mobile network coverage relies to a large extent on the frequencies that will become available at the end of 2028 following the expiry of the current licences. These frequencies – in the 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz and 2600 MHz bands – are of great importance for operating mobile communications networks. As these frequencies are a scarce public resource, ComCom launched a transparent procedure that is open to all on 1 September 2026 for the next award. Current mobile network operators and other interested companies may participate on equal terms.

Through the award of the new licences, ComCom aims to ensure that the Swiss public and business community continue to be provided with high-quality mobile communications services. ComCom's objectives also include the efficient assignment and use of the frequency spectrum, and the maintenance and fostering of existing competition between mobile network operators for the benefit of consumers. In addition, under telecommunications legislation, appropriate auction revenue must be generated for the scarce frequencies.

The frequencies will be awarded by auction. ComCom successfully used the internationally proven, two-stage auction procedure already in the last auction in 2019.