Communications regulator Ofcom is launching a consultation to consider opening up mobile phone network regulation to promote innovative services and increased competition.

Allowing wider access to the radio spectrum bands used by mobile phone operators could improve network coverage and allow broadband internet access on mobiles.

The consultation covers the spectrum used by Vodafone, O2, T-Mobile and
Orange for their 2G networks.

In line with the existing European GSM Directive, licences for the spectrum presently limit its use to 2G technology, which supports voice calls, text messaging and low-speed internet services.

Ofcom wants to preempt a forthcoming European Commission directive that will state that 2G spectrum should be freed up for a much wider range of uses, including high-speed mobile broadband services using 3G.

The consultation is open until 29 November.