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Sprint Needs More Time to Clear Spectrum

posted Jun 19, 2008, 7:16 AM   by Eric M. Zeman
updated Jun 19, 2008, 2:12 PM

Updated: Added more information based on FCC's decision.

Sprint has officially asked the FCC to give it more time to clear certain portions of spectrum that it agreed to vacate to reduce interference on certain public safety frequencies. The original deadline was set for June 26, 2008. Sprint was to swap the spectrum in question with some public safety agencies. Those agencies have also requested that the deadline be extended, and they proposed a date of July 1, 2009. Sprint is asking for the FCC to give it a phased schedule for vacating the spectrum over the coming months. Just last month a federal court mandated that Sprint adhere to the deadline. The FCC decided to grant Sprint's wish, and will not hold it accountable to meet the June 26 deadline. It has not, however, made a final decision on if/when a new deadline will be set.

more info at Reuters »