Google co-founder Larry Page has reiterated the call for the use of so-called White Spaces by devices operating in the bands that separate the frequencies used by digital television broadcasters. Regular readers of the eNews will recall that search engine giant Google qualified for and participated in the recently concluded auction of the 700-MHz band despite that fact that it had no wireless network. Industry analysts quickly concluded that its actual purpose was to drive bidding beyond the threshold at which the ultimate winner of a crucial block of spectrum would be obligated to open its air waves to any legally manufactured wireless device. In a speech before a progressive Washington, DC think tank, the New America Foundation. Page set about campaigning for the next steps regarding “his passion”—an open distributed network that would bring broadband to underserved areas of the country and would boost the U.S. dismal ranking (behind 15 other nations) in bringing broadband access to a majority of its citizens. Page also focused on the transmission qualities of this premium swath of spectrum that would require fewer transmitters and the necessity of assuring that spectrum winner Verizon Wireless lives up to its obligation to provide open access. He also admitted that boosting the ranks of Internet users would indeed be a boon for Google and increase its advertising revenues. In taking this position, Page has taken on the National Association of Broadcasters and certain members of Congress, who contend that unlicensed devices operating in these bands have the potential for causing massive interference and effectively sabotaging the effective switch to digital television. A recap of Page’s presentation can be found at the New America Foundationwebsite
Google Co-founder Weighs in on White Space Controversy
