Search engine provider Google has urged the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to open up unused sections of broadcast television spectrum in the US also known as 'white space'.In a six-page letter to the body, Google promoted plans for the spectrum involving the creation of affordable broadband offerings with faster speed and reach than Wi-Fi.
Attorney for the internet giant Rick Whitt called on the FCC to adopt rules that would allow devices to make use of the white space, suggesting it is a precious resource.
He stated: "Unlike other natural resources, there is no benefit to allowing this spectrum to lie fallow. The airwaves can provide huge economic and social gains if [they are] used more efficiently - as seen today with the relatively tiny slices utilised by mobile phones and Wi-Fi services."
Mr Whitt added: "The unique qualities of the TV white space - unused spectrum, large amounts of
bandwidth and excellent propagation characteristics - offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to provide ubiquitous wireless broadband access to all Americans."
Google's move to free up the white space comes shortly after the search engine provider participated in an auction for 700 MHz spectrum.
Mr Whitt stated, however, that the white space suggestions were not tied to that auction, in which Google was outbid by Verizon Wireless for the major section of wireless spectrum.
According to the San Francisco Chronicle, the FCC rejected appeals for use of white space last year after tests found that devices using the spectrum either interfered with or failed to avoid TV signals.
