Wireless devices will be able to access white spaces.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved a plan to make currently unused parts of the US broadcast television spectrum available for use by wireless devices.

The FCC’s decision, made on 4 November, marks the first step in permitting the operation of unlicensed devices in the TV white spaces – unused airwaves between broadcast TV channels – which will provide broadband data and other services for the public.

The unanimous 5-0 vote by the FCC in favour of opening the spectrum has been welcomed by technology giants, including Microsoft, HP and Google, who believe the move would improve internet access across the United States.

Google in particular fought hard for the use of white spaces, and even launched a ‘Free the Airwaves’ campaign which received support from more than 20,000 people.

Larry Page, Google Co-Founder and President of Products, said: “This is a clear victory for internet users and anyone who wants good wireless communications.

“We think that this spectrum will help put better and faster internet connections in the hands of the public.”

There is however some opposition towards the plan as fears emerge that signals across the airwaves could be disrupted by the wireless devices. The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), which represents more than 8,300 American radio and TV stations, was disappointed with the FCC’s ruling.

NAB Executive Vice President Dennis Wharton said: “Every American who values interference-free TV should be concerned by today’s Commission vote.

“By moving the ‘white space’ vote forward, the Commission appears to have bypassed meaningful public or peer review in a proceeding of grave importance to the future of television.”