Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOGL) (NASDAQ:GOOG) wants to expand its fiber optic cable service. The tech giant is now preparing to test out new technology which allows it to provide foundation for wireless high-speed fiber optic cable service.
Google looks at expanding in California
Earlier this week, there was a public but little known application filed with United States Federal Communications Commission. Google asked for permission to conduct tests within the state of California across different wireless spectrums. This includes a rarely used millimeter-wave frequency which can send significant amounts of data.
Although it isn’t exactly clear what Google hopes to do, it does point towards a possible goal of controlling internet connectivity. Technology it seeks could be used as the basis for wireless connection in homes and creating the need for actual ground cable or fiber connection. This could work by beaming internet services into homes. It would create a new path to compete with bigwigs like Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA), Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ), and AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T).
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Google sees big opportunity
Wireless engineer and consultant who keeps an eye on FCC filings elaborated, “From a radio standpoint it’s the closest thing to fiber there is. You could look at it as a possible wireless extension of their Google Fiber wireless network, as a way to more economically serve homes. Put up a pole in a neighborhood, instead of having to run fiber to each home.”
Google Access and Energy Division executive is leading efforts to expand high-speed fiber optic programs in Kansas City among other places. He also signed authorization for Google’s FCC application.
In early 2014, it was reported Google was looking for new ways to expand to a full-fledged wireless service complete with internet access and voice. The search giant wants to start high-speed internet in over 30 cities in the United States. Last year, the company teamed up with Starbucks to offer customers internet access at over 7,000 locations.
Source: Reuters
