Virgin Media tests 4G in London

Tests run ahead of the spectrum auction later this year

Virgin Media has tested its 4G mobile network technology in its Oxford Street store in London ahead of the spectrum auction to be held at the end of this year.

The auction, run by communications regulator Ofcom, will enable mobile networks in the UK to connect to 4G technology.

Virgin Media tested the mobile services in an Ofcom-licensed trial starting in December.

The Financial Times said Virgin is considering bidding for 2.6 GHz of frequency at the auction, as opposed to the 800 MHz in which operators are most interested.

"We're working closely with partners across the UK to develop our proven Wi-Fi solution and our recent 4G trial proved the capability of our small-cell solution," said a Virgin Media spokesperson.

Earlier this month, Ofcom revised its plans for the 4G spectrum auction, saying it will no longer guarantee network access to network operator Everything Everywhere.