WOM requests permission from the Delaware Bankruptcy Court, USA, to relinquish Its 26 GHz band license. This decision is based on the assertion that the technology has become obsolete and lacks users and commercial appeal.
Eduardo Jara, vice president of Corporate Affairs at WOM, stated that despite high expectations, the 26 GHz band has not found commercial applicability since it was awarded to the company in 2021.
The concession was part of a broader package awarded by the Undersecretariat of Telecommunications (Subtel), which included several bands intended to drive the development of 5G technologies in the country, including the 26 GHz band.
Due to the commitments of the concession, WOM must initiate the process of turning on the antennas before May 23. Failure to do so will result in severe economic sanctions and possible disqualifications for future public tenders.
According to the operator's calculations, making the 26 GHz band operational requires an initial investment of at least US$ 10 million, a cost that the company considers unfeasible given the limited interest and lack of commercial development.