Six groups have applied to participate in Brazil’s 4G auction of spectrum in the 2.5GHz band. Regulator Anatel said it received bid proposals from Claro Brasil, TIM Brasil, Oi, Vivo, Sky Brasil and Sunrise Telecomunicacoes.

The opening of the bids is scheduled for 12 June, at Anatel’s headquarters in Brasilia. The winners will be those that offer the highest price for each frequency block. If all lots offered are sold, Anatel expects to raise at least BRL 3.85 billion, based on reserve prices. As for the 450 MHz band, which will serve to expand the coverage of telephone and internet services in rural areas, the winner will be the one offering the lowest price to the consumer. According to the licence requirements, all municipalities with more than 100,000 inhabitants will have 4G coverage by 31 December 2016.