Among those trying to influence the outcome are three of the nation?s four largest cellular providers, rural and regional wireless carriers, cable and satellite television companies and a range of technology companies ? including Google and Yahoo.
Along with other wireless technology proposals, the auction could reshape the debate over who controls access to the networks that deliver digital content to consumers. Opening the door to more network competition nationally could have a tremendous economic impact.
?This offers the potential for a real game changer in broadband spectrum,? said John M. R. Kneuer, assistant secretary for communications and information at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, an arm of the Commerce Department. ?It can both generate new innovation and lower prices.?
Last month Mr. Hundt launched a Washington-based organization called Frontline Wireless and filed a proposal with the F.C.C. to create an ?open access? network intended to support both public safety services and the creation of a system to offer wholesale broadband network service.
Unlike the current practice of American cellular companies, which lock customers? handsets to a particular carrier, Mr. Hundt?s network envisions a system that would let a consumer connect a device like an Apple iPhone or a Palm hand-held device upon purchasing the device at a store like Best Buy.
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