Google sent the FCC a proposal for a new scheme for spectrum auctions: Permit companies to resell the airwaves in a real-time auction which would greatly improve spectrum use because it would be sold and bought on an as-needed basis. FCC auctions have long been criticized for the copious amounts of money required upfront, leaving some, particularly smaller companies, with little money to build the required infrastructure. Google said that "many of these thorny problems would be alleviated by a more open and market-driven spectrum access policy." The company also noted it has no plans to participate in the auction. Frontline Wireless, which has made a somewhat similar proposal, is expected to endorse Google's proposal.
For more on the Google spectrum plan:
- read this article from CNET