When the FCC puts the 700MHz wireless spectrum on the auction block in January Google will be there. The company best known for its Internet search and data mining technology will have to pony up at least US$4.6 billion -- and likely even more -- if it comes out with the winning bid.

The spectrum will likely be used for wireless Internet and cell phone service regardless of who wins the auction, creating new avenues for wireless Internet access. Opening the spectrum will also benefit consumers since the license winner will be required to allow customers to use any device they want and download any applications the like to mobile devices on the network.

Google CEO Eric Schmidt commented "We believe itis important to put our money where our principles are," and added "No matter which bidder ultimately prevails, the real winners of this auction are American consumers who likely will see more choices than ever before in how they access the Internet."

Google must file its application to participate in the auction with the FCC by December 3. The auction will officially begin on January 24, 2008, and could run for several months.