Vodacom Skeptical About Icasa’s Plan to Share Spectrum

Vodacom doubts Icasa spectrum plan: Vodacom has warned that dynamic spectrum sharing is experimental, with no evidence of its sustainability.

The dynamic spectrum allocation framework was proposed by the communications regulator Icasa.

Vodacom Doubts Icasa Spectrum Plan

The company highlighted it was pleased that Icasa is not opening up current broadband spectrum bands for dynamic spectrum sharing (DSS).

However, it cautioned that the technology is still in an experimental stage, with no sustainable business models evident globally.

Vodacom went on to request that Icasa conduct an economic feasibility study to understand sustainability prospects in the South African environment.

Also Read: Vodacom Sues Regulator Over Hidden Deals for Wireless Frequencies

Icasa’s plan to explore dynamic spectrum sharing aligns with international trends, but there are concerns about the technical feasibility and enforceability of the regulatory regime.

Other Telcos Voice Concerns

Company spokesman Byron Kennedy said, “We have asked Icasa to conduct an economic feasibility study to understand the prospects of sustainability in the South African environment.”

Not only did Vodacom doubt the Icasa spectrum plan, but the other telco in the country also voiced their opinions about the new development. 

Telkom told TechCentral that if the spectrum is properly designed, implemented, and enforced, dynamic spectrum sharing can improve the efficient use of spectrum in selected frequency bands. 

The company went on to highlight that a challenge that could hinder this is the availability of accurate and up-to-date real-time information about incumbent services.

MTN South Africa has also taken note of Icasa’s request for information and is giving it the careful consideration it deserves. 

The industry is still weighing the potential benefits and challenges of dynamic spectrum sharing as a method to improve spectrum utilization in the country.