REDMOND, Wash - October 15, 2008 - Microsoft applauds the Federal Communications Commission for circulating a draft order among the Commissioners. The FCC has now crossed an important milestone in the path to establishing final rules of the road for the use of the white spaces.  Clearly the FCC’s internal work and its test process has provided enough information, guidance and technical input to move the process forward in allowing unlicensed use of the white spaces. 

We are pleased that the FCC and Chairman Martin plan to soon vote on this important matter.  We urge the Commissioners to come to a decision quickly and adopt rules that will allow all Americans to realize the full and enormous potential white spaces have to expand broadband access in underserved, urban, and rural areas and to enable a new wave of innovation and Internet services and products.

About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

Note to editors: If you are interested in viewing additional information on Microsoft, please visit the Microsoft Web page at http://www.microsoft.com/presspass on Microsoft’s corporate information pages. Web links, telephone numbers and titles were correct at time of publication, but may since have changed. For additional assistance, journalists and analysts may contact Microsoft’s Rapid Response Team or other appropriate contacts listed at http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/contactpr.mspx.