FCC 700MHz Auction ends raising $19.6 billion

The auction of the much sought after 700MHz frequency currently used by analog TV signals went up for auction in late January.  Bidders such as Google, Verizon, AT&T, Alltel and others fought to win the auction in hopes of growing their networks, or in Google’s case, creating a new network.

This particular frequency is most sought after most because of its high resilience and capability of penetrating walls, structures, etc.  The FCC mandated that all TV signals must be off this frequency by 2009 making it available for auction and setting an FCC auction record raising %19.6 billion.

The 700MHz block of frequency is capable of carrying a signal twice as far as the traditional cell tower and would enable companies to install and deploy wireless broadband networks that would  require half the tower coverage.

Visionaries and technologists predict this as the beginning of true mobile computing that could spark innovation of even smaller computing options and true high-speed wireless internet access.  This could open up the possibility of paying one bill for wireless internet/phone/etc. using a device that would do everything from call home, manage your database/spreadshees, check email, live video conferencing, etc. all from one device.

The auction winners could be revealed as soon as April 2nd.

More articles on the subject:

FCC auction winners could be revealed soon

Spectrum Auction Raises $19.6 Billion 

Image from engadget.com.