Verizon’s announcement - that it planned to open up its network to third-party devices and applications - sparked much speculation on whether the move might dissuade Google from bidding in the upcoming 700 MHz auction. It hasn’t.

Today Google put an end to all speculation and announced that it will participate in the 700 MHz auction set to begin Jan. 24.

"We believe it’s important to put our money where our principles are," said Eric Schmidt, Chairman and CEO, Google. "Consumers deserve more competition and innovation than they have in today’s wireless world. 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’s will take the first step and file the formal application to participate with the FCC on Monday, December 3, 2007 — and they flying solo on this one. Google’s application does not include any partners.

The prize Google is after is the most valued slice of the 700MHz frequencies, the prime broadband spectrum in the "C-block". These are the frequencies that fall under the open-access requirements issued by the FCC. If Google won the auction and if it could stitch together a competing nationwide wireless voice and data network Verizon, and virtually all other network operators, would have a formidable opponent.

Of course these are big ifs. Google’s primary mission is to load its search pages, applications, and  advertising on as many screens as possible, Google is not a wireless network operator. But they are rich and powerful. Which means they could find someone experienced who could build and run the network for them.

An article by Richard Martin posted on Information Weeks website identified one such company; Frontline Wireless, a startup formed to bid in the auction and to build out a hybrid private/public network.

Whatever the case if Google wins the auction the way we use wireless will be forever changed. Stay tuned for more.

Based in Greensboro, N.C., Frontline is headed by some veteran telecom executives including former FCC chairman Reed Hundt. Backed by some Silicon Valley heavyweights including Jim Barksdale (Netscape) and John Doerr (Kleiner Perkins Caufield and Byers), Frontline seems to be well funded. They can’t, however, compete with Google. 

The article says it would make perfect sense for Google to partner with a company like Frontline. They have the expertise and the willingness to build and operate the network.