The first-ever auction of the radio frequency spectrum for third generation (3G) telephony has begun. It would facilitate high-speed mobile services in the country. <br/><br/>Nine telecom companies, are participating in the online auction process which will be held from 9 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. on all days, except Sundays and national holidays.<br/><br/>Bharti Airtel, Reliance Communications, Vodafone Essar, Tata Teleservices, Idea Cellular and Aircel are bidding for all-India spectrum, while Videocon, S Tel and Etisalat are bidding only for selective circles. <br/><br/>AIR correspondent reports that it is a simultaneous auction of 22 service areas over a secure website on the Internet. <br/><br/>The successful bidders would be allowed to offer 3G services on a commercial basis from Sep 1. <br/>