Winners have been announced in Ofcom’s bidding war for the 5G spectrum, with most of the major UK telecoms providers splashing out big bucks for a slice.

BT Group confirmed on Thursday that it had secured 40MHz of the spectrum needed to launch 5G services in the future, at a cost of £302.6 million.

Marc Allera, CEO of BT’s Consumer Division, said:

“The acquisition of 40MHz of 3.4GHz spectrum positions us well for our launch of future 5G services and consolidates our position as one of the world’s leading providers of communications services.

“With this outcome, we’ll continue to roll out the fastest 4G service to consumers and businesses across the UK, and now look ahead to the potential new services that 5G will offer, keeping our nation at the forefront of digital communications.”

Vodafone UK also confirmed that it had acquired 50 MHz of spectrum in the 3400 MHz band, for a total cost of £378.2 million. The spectrum acquired has a 20-year term and is convertible to perpetual licences thereafter.

Three owner Hutchison also picked up 20 MHz of 3.4 GHz spectrum for £151 million, with O2 parent Telefonica winning all 40 MHz of the 2.3 GHz spectrum available at £206 million.

Ofcom’s Philip Marnick commented: “As a nation we’re using ever more mobile data on smartphones and mobile devices. Releasing these airwaves will make it quicker and easier to get online on the move. It will also allow companies to prepare for 5G mobile, paving the way for a range of smart, connected devices.”