two of the five FCC members said they supported FCC chairman Kevin Martin's proposal to open up about one-third of the forthcoming 700 MHz spectrum,... any device could be used and any software could be downloaded over these open airwaves, in contrast to the existing closed, proprietary networks.
Google has lobbied that an open network is necessary to give US consumers a third choice in mobile broadband - rather than be limited to buying service from either a giant cable or phone company - and to bring wireless innovation in the country in line with other parts of the world, notably Europe.
Google, however, has lobbied not just for an open-access network but also for rules that would require licensees to lease their networks to wireless service providers, including broadband providers.
"If Google is serious about introducing a competing business model into the wireless industry, chairman Martin's compromise proposal allows them to bid in the auction, win the spectrum, and then implement every one of the conditions they seek," said Jim Cicconi, AT&T VP of legislative affairs.
