Google Nabs TV's Spectrum (For Free)

Barack Obama wasn't the only big winner today.  The FCC has announced that, as the TV networks move from analogue to digital platforms, a big wedge of Spectrum is to be freed up for unlicensed wireless devices and public use.  The 'empty TV channels', as they are referred to here will be made open, meaning that everyone can become their own little wi-fi station, instead of the centralised carriers that exist currently.  Practically, this means that, "consumers would buy a wireless phone at a store, but instead of being forced to use a specific carrier, they would be free to pick any carrier they wanted. Instead of the wireless carrier choosing what software goes on their phones, users would be free to put any software they want on it."  All of which appears to be a huge win for Google.  Why?  As Larry Page says, "Ten per cent more connectivity in the US means more ten percent more revenue for us."  In other words, a $2bn payday.  Or as ZNet's Larry Dignan says: "Let me get this straight: Google prods the FCC to open up the airwaves. It enters bidding for 700 Mhz spectrum, jacks up the auction prices for carriers, doesn’t actually bid and now gets handed spectrum that’s arguably more valuable. Nice job, Google."  Jeff Jarvis raves here about the decision: "Kiss those old phones and two-year contracts goodbye and turn to new, open devices that run software from - you guessed it - Google."  Welcome to Google Android - Part II.