Hot Spectrum Draws Cash, and Ideals

HOT SPECTRUM DRAWS CASH, AND IDEALS
[SOURCE: New York Times, AUTHOR: John Markoff]
It is referred to as the last beachfront property in the wireless world -- a prized swath of spectrum that is about to be sold at federal auction. And it has touched off an intense lobbying effort pitting cellular companies against a variety of new players interested in the potential of a next-generation mobile Internet. The Federal Communications Commission will set the rules for the auction, possibly as soon as next month. Depending on that ruling, the spectrum could be used for voice services for cellular carriers, new frequencies for emergency responders, or a commercial high-speed broadband multimedia network. Among those trying to influence the outcome are three of the nation’s four largest cellular providers, rural and regional wireless carriers, cable and satellite television companies and a range of technology companies -- including Google and Yahoo. Along with other wireless technology proposals, the auction could reshape the debate over who controls access to the networks that deliver digital content to consumers. Opening the door to more network competition nationally could have a tremendous economic impact.
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/03/26/technology/26spectrum.html
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