"We share the FCC's enthusiasm about the potential use of TV white spaces for Wi-Fi," said Wi-Fi Alliance CEO Edgar Figueroa. "The new FCC rules will foster innovation that benefits end users, while continuing to promote co-existence among all users of the spectrum."
The Wi-Fi Alliance recently initiated an industry effort to create a certification program for Wi-Fi devices operating in the TV white spaces. This program will draw on the emerging IEEE 802.11af standard.
Operation in television white spaces spectrum will enable Wi-Fi signals to travel up to three times farther and better penetrate obstructions such as walls and physical obstructions. New applications will be able to take advantage of this greatly improved range for Wi-Fi, to build large outdoor networks and extend coverage in hospitals, homes, corporate environments and more.
"Our industry is ready to design a range of innovations leveraging television white spaces, and we are excited for what lies ahead as a result of the Commission's decision today," said Figueroa. "Delivering advanced connectivity using TV white spaces spectrum is another important way for Wi-Fi technology to address consumer and market needs and advance our connected experience."