Google pushes ahead on wireless bid

Search engine giant Google will pay $4.6 billion or more to launch its own mobile cellphone network.

Google is already testing an advanced wireless network within its headquarters, possibly as a dry run for operating its own mobile network should it win the spectrum.

When its Android cellular platform was announced last week, some took it as a sign that it could be moving away from its previously discussed plans to bid in the upcoming Federal Communications Commission auction of 700 MHz wireless spectrum. The bid will be turned in on December 3, 2007.

Google wants to make sure that American consumers have more choices in an open and competitive wireless world and the renowned company has already made great progress in achieving the proud outcome.

The 700 MHz band of the wireless spectrum, previously used by TV stations, is sought after for its ability to travel long distances and go through walls. Because TV broadcasters are now moving to digital distribution, the FCC plans to auction off those bands in January.

Google is currently working out the financing to support its bid of US$4.6 billion or higher, relying on a combination of its own cash and borrowed funds.

Android will run well on all existing data networks as well as on any more open versions that might result from the FCC auction.