Search engine giant Google is planning to bid for wireless spectrum, according to a report this morning in the Wall Street Journal (WSJ).No-one at Google was available to comment on the proposed offer, but the publication suggests that the price of the deal will be around $4.6 billion and will take place in the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) auction at the start of 2008.
The spectrum in question can be used for both internet and mobile phone services, but the FCC has established a December 3rd deadline for Google to declare their interest in purchase, giving the search engine just over two weeks to come to a decision.
Financial matters are currently being discussed, but the WSJ indicates that Google may rely on its own cash, in addition to borrowing some of the money. No partners are thought to be involved in the bid alongside the search engine.
It is also suggested that test versions of an advanced wireless network are currently being undertaken at Google's Mountain View headquarters in California, which will be helping the company gain operating experience for the future. This statement was made by people familiar with the matter, according to the newspaper.
Earlier this year, in a letter to the FCC, Google's chief executive Eric Schmidt said: "In short, when Americans can use the software and handsets of their choice, over open and competitive networks, they win."
