Ofcom has announced plans to clear a significant portion of radio spectrum and set it aside exclusively for mobile broadband networks.

The telecoms regulator published a statement yesterday (June 30th) confirming its intentions to use the 800MHz band of spectrum.

Following the move, internet service providers will be able to offer next-generation (4G) mobile broadband to UK customers.

The UK's digital dividend divide will now be more closely in line with those of other European countries.

"We believe that freeing-up the whole 800MHz band for new uses will provide large benefits to citizens and consumers," said Ofcom.

"These include lower equipment prices for consumers, more efficient use of spectrum, improved opportunities for new generations of mobile broadband and more scope for competition and innovation in new wireless services."

According to the 4G Working Group, next-generation mobile broadband could provide users with speeds of up to 100Mb while moving and 1Gb when stationary.