(Telecompaper) The FCC has completed the AWS-3 spectrum auction, raising USD 44.9 billion from the sale of 65 MHz of frequencies in the 1,700 MHz band for mobile services. The proceeds were the most ever raised from a spectrum auction in the US, according to FCC chairmn Tom Wheeler. Part of the proceeds will go towards government programmes to expand broadband access. AT&T and Verizon are thought to be the main participants in the auction, and T-Mobile and Dish Network are also likely to have participated. Sprint said earlier it would not bid. The FCC will release details of the local licences bidders later.