The upcoming 700 Mhz wireless auctions are causing quite a competitive stir. There is a lot at stake. The 700 Mhz spectrum is a goldmine because of its great propagation characteristics, which will let wireless operators offer broadband speeds with great indoor coverage. Frontline Wireless is proposing that the FCC change the auction rules to allow a single nationwide license for 700 Mhz spectrum, allowing them to deploy a nationwide broadband wireless network and compete with established wireless players. They also claim that they will build a compatible nationwide first responders network. Such a proposal doesn’t sit well with established wireless players, and they are not being quiet about it. It sets up a classic Washington DC battle, where lobbyists and lawyers battle it out and get paid handsomely to do so.
Read this Wired article to for the details.
