Google Wireless? Search Giant Asks FCC For Licence

Google Wireless could add a major player to the US wireless market and now the search giant has requested that the FCC grant a radio service license. FCC approval would mean that Google could setup and test 50 base stations and 200 user devices during the licensed period.

Google wants to build its experimental wireless service to cover a two-mile radius around its Mountain View, California headquarters. Google has not stated what it hopes to accomplish by building the test stations.

Analysts agree that the network would likely focus on Google’s attempts to create an internet based mobile device service.

Google would be testing the network in the 2524 to 2625MHz frequency which requires specialized smartphones that have not been made available to the public at this time.

The above mentioned frequencies are believed to be good choices for high population densities such as inner-city areas. In fact companies in Brazil, Japan and China are believed to be working on new networks with that same frequency. Already using that frequency range for testing is cellular data provider Clearwire.

Google could simply be using the network to test a new nationwide wireless internet service. Google has attempted to disrupt the fiber optic industry with its Google Fiber projects and a nationwide high-speed network based on WiFi could be a huge win for the company.

Google could use a high-tech WiFi network to disrupt the cellular industry by adding voice+data services into a single, inexpensive monthly plan.

Because Google relies on connected internet users the company is attempting to make internet access affordable for as many people as possible.

Google originally tried to buy wireless spectrum in the 700Mhz range in 2007 but its bids ultimately failed to gain traction.

Would you switch over to Google Wireless phone and data services if they were made available at reasonable prices?