Indonesia’s latest spectrum auction has produced a split result among its largest mobile operators. Telkomsel secured the largest total allocation at 100 MHz, while XLSmart gained the biggest share of the 700 MHz band.
The distinction matters because the two bands serve different network needs. The 700 MHz band is suited to wider coverage, while the 2.6 GHz band is intended for higher data capacity and faster speeds.
Telkomsel Leads on Total Spectrum
Telkomsel received 20 MHz in the 700 MHz band and 80 MHz in the 2.6 GHz band. Its combined 100 MHz allocation exceeds the 80 MHz totals obtained by Indosat and XLSmart.
| Operator | 700 MHz | 2.6 GHz | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Telkomsel | 20 MHz | 80 MHz | 100 MHz |
| Indosat | 20 MHz | 60 MHz | 80 MHz |
| XLSmart | 30 MHz | 50 MHz | 80 MHz |
Telkomsel’s 80 MHz award in the 2.6 GHz band is the largest allocation in that range. Indosat followed with 60 MHz, while XLSmart received 50 MHz.
The 2.6 GHz band is classified as mid-band spectrum and is aimed at handling greater data traffic and higher network speeds. Telkomsel’s allocation therefore gives it the largest amount of spectrum in the band intended for capacity-led connectivity.
XLSmart Holds the 700 MHz Edge
XLSmart received 30 MHz in the 700 MHz band, compared with 20 MHz each for Telkomsel and Indosat. This gives XLSmart the largest allocation in the low-band spectrum category.
Low-band frequencies such as 700 MHz are designed to cover wider areas, including more remote locations. The larger allocation could support XLSmart’s network coverage needs under the new spectrum distribution.
The auction outcome means the competitive picture differs depending on which band is being considered. Telkomsel has the largest total spectrum holding, but XLSmart has the strongest position in the band associated with broader signal reach.
The allocation of both low-band and mid-band frequencies is expected to strengthen connectivity quality. It is also intended to support a more even digital transformation beyond major urban areas.
Auction Process Completed
The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs completed all stages of the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz radio frequency auction. The selection process began in April 2026 and passed its objection period through July 14, 2026, without objections from participants.
Communication and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid said the process was carried out transparently and accountably. Antara quoted her remarks in a report published by Liputan6.com on July 21, 2026.
“Everything is complete for us to announce the completion of all stages of the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz radio frequency band auction in July 2026,” Meutya said. The completed process clears the way for the winning operators to use their new allocations.
Digital Infrastructure and State Revenue
Meutya described radio spectrum as an important foundation for Indonesia’s national digital infrastructure. The government expects the auction to accelerate digital transformation and deliver more direct, evenly distributed benefits for the public.
The selection is expected to generate initial non-tax state revenue of up to Rp6 trillion. Over a 10-year projection, total state revenue could reach Rp30 trillion.
The additional economic value from the auction is planned to be redirected to development programs that benefit the public. For users, the new allocation sets the basis for operators to improve both wider coverage and higher-capacity mobile connectivity.