Finding Use for the Airwaves' 'White Spaces'

The Federal Communications Commission has spent nearly a year testing devices designed to use empty television channels, known as white spaces, for high-speed Internet service. As those tests near conclusion, the agency is evaluating yet another proposal about the best use of the airwaves. Technology giants such as Google, Microsoft and Motorola want the FCC to let them use vacant channels without licensing to provide cheap wireless broadband. But TV broadcasters and wireless microphone makers are opposed, saying multiple companies using the same white space could mean more interference for their broadcasts. Qualcomm, a wireless chip maker, and CTIA, the wireless industry's lobbying association in Washington, are calling for the airwaves to be auctioned off and licensed. Qualcomm said licensing the airwaves will ensure wider coverage and protection from interference, and auctioning the spectrum would raise money for the government as well.