Wednesday, August 1, 2007

FCC Approves Rules for Airwaves Auction

FCC Approves Rules for Airwaves Auction
By JOHN DUNBAR 07.31.07, 8:57 PM ET Associated Press

WASHINGTON -

The FCC approved rules Tuesday intended to give people greater choice when it comes to their cell phones and wireless devices following completion of a pivotal airwaves auction next year.

The vote clears the way for the auction, which by law must take place no later than Jan. 28, 2008. It is expected to raise as much as $15 billion.

The Federal Communications Commission approved a much-debated "open access" provision, pushed by Chairman Kevin Martin, a Republican, and supported by the agency's two Democrats. It will allow customers to use whatever phone and software they want on about one-third of the spectrum to be auctioned.

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