Washington - A coalition of large technology firms -- including Microsoft, Google, Dell, HP, Intel and Philips -- have asked the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to allow unused TV channels ("white space") to be used for distribution of Internet access into homes and offices, The Washington Post reported on Tuesday.

The companies planned to deliver a prototype device built by Microsoft today to the FCC, which will only approve the technology if it doesn't interfere with existing TV channels.

"These devices have the potential to take the success of the WiFi phenomenon to another level," FCC commissioner Jonathan S. Adelstein told The Post.

Telecom and cable broadband providers quizzed by The Post were somewhat wary of the TV Internet technology, but weren't ready to call it a potential threat to their businesses.

In addition, one person affiliated with the coalition developing the technology told The Post that the system could possibly be combined with phone- or cable-provided broadband service to redirect signals throughout an office or home.

If approved, the companies believe they can deliver a product to market by early 2009.

Related Links:
http://tinyurl.com/2qxfdx (Washington Post)