spectrum

Google confirmed today it would participate in the FCC 700 MHz spectrum auction that will start on January 24, 2008.

It has chosen the "C" block of spectrum, and will be bidding alone, without any partners. The deadline for filling an application to take part in the event is December 3.

The company said it will take care of all the necessary paperwork with the FCC on Monday.

The FCC has closed this summer's auction (also known as Auction 66) of radio spectrum for 3G services, after 161 rounds of bidding over 28 days.

T-Mobile was the highest bidder and won 120 licenses with total sum of bids $4.2 billion. These licenses cover almost the whole country, including the large markets of New York, Los Angeles and Chicago.

Other top bidders can be found from the table:

Top 10 Highest Bidders Bidders Net total of high bids 1.