Washington - Ending months of speculation, Google (NASD: GOOG) on Friday announced that it will take part in the Federal Communications Commission's upcoming wireless spectrum auction -- a move that could eventually put the company in position to begin offering wireless phone and Internet services.

January's action for space in the 700 megahertz spectrum likely will pit Google against such industry heavyweights as Verizon Wireless (NYSE: VZ) and AT&T (NYSE: T).

Earlier this week, Verizon Wireless announced that it would become the first major mobile service in the U.S. to open its network to outside wireless devices and software -- requirements being imposed on spectrum bidders by the FCC, largely as a result of Google's influence.

"We believe it's important to put our money where our principles are," said Eric Schmidt, the chairman and CEO, Google.

"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."

Related Links:
http://www.google.com/intl/en/press/pressrel/fccspectrum_20071130.html