Govt allocates 127 MHz spectrum to test TV whitespace tech

Technology ensures hassle-free reception of mobile signals inside buildings and basements

The government has allocated 127 MHz spectrum to eight entities to test the TV whitespace technology, which ensures hassle-free reception of mobile signals inside buildings and basements.

“The government has issued eight licences for carrying out experiments at several places, using TV whitespace technology, in the frequency band 470-582 MHz,” Ravi Shankar Prasad, minister for communications and IT, said in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha. TV whitespace technology utilises part of the spectrum that remains unused while transmitting broadcast signals.

Mobile consumers often complain of not receiving signals when they are inside buildings or basements. However, TV whitespace is considered efficient to reach deep inside buildings. According to studies, Wi-Fi signals can penetrate up to two walls, but TV whitespace can penetrate many obstacles and provide coverage up to 10 km.

The government has allocated 60 MHz spectrum to ERNET — an autonomous body under the telecom ministry; 20 MHz to power equipment maker BHEL, 10 MHz or less each to Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, IIT Delhi, IIT Hyderabad, International Institute of Information Technology Bengaluru and Tata Advanced Systems; and 10 MHz to the collector and magistrate at Amaravati, the minister said.

In another development, US-based firm Apple has sought permission from the government to import pre-owned iPhones for sale in India.

“An application from Apple regarding import of certified pre-owned iPhones for sale in India and manufacturing certified pre-owned iPhones for sale in India has been received in the ministry of environment and forests,” said Prasad. He was replying to a question on whether any company has sought permission for refurbishing and selling used mobile phones in the country.

However, the government has not taken any decision on the matter.

Recently, Apple had also sent an application for approval to the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion to set up retail outlets in India. India is one of the fastest growing handset markets globally and is poised to overtake the US soon.