The upcoming spectrum auction that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is expected to authorize in the next few weeks has pitted several major technology and telecommunications companies against one another. The current draft rules for the auction set aside some new spectrum (22MHz of the 60MHz up for auction) for an “open” network — unlicensed radio frequency spectrum that can be used by anyone, with a limited set of rules to prevent abuse of this “wireless commons.”

The open spectrum would allow for real innovation in the wireless industry since any device could be used on the new network. The current system was devised decades ago, when wireless devices were unable to discriminate between a signal and other “noise” that they receive. Modern radio frequency devises are far better at receiving weak signals, even when interference is present. Thus, Google, and other technology companies are arguing that open spectrum is feasible, and could provide real competition in the wireless industry.

Telecom companies aren’t going to give up without a fight, however. AT&T has threatened the FCC with a lawsuit if the Commission doesn’t doesn’t hold the spectrum auction along the lines that AT&T wants. A lawsuit could delay the auction beyond the Congressional mandate that is allowing the auction to take place. As Art Brodsky at the Huffington Post says, “All Google was asking for, on its behalf and on many others, is a chance to have access to spectrum to offer services and applications to consumers.”

For more information on open spectrum, check out The Open Spectrum FAQ over at Greater Democracy.