Google's wireless tests, Nokia's next smartphones … 5 things to know today

1. Google has asked the Federal Communications Commission for permission to test wireless technology in up to 24 U.S. locations. The company said the goal is to provide customers with internet access, suggesting that it is considering wireless alternatives to Google Fiber.
Google is targeting the spectrum between the 3.4 GHz band and the 3.8 GHz band. The 37 GHz band is one of the millimeter wave bands recently released by the FCC for the development of “5G” technologies. The 3550 – 3700 MHz bands are known as Citizens Broadband Radio Service and were cleared by the FCC last year.
Wireless alternatives to fiber enable service providers to avoid the expense and delays often associated with trenching for fiber installations. They may, however, generate higher operating expenses over time because exposed radios and antennas are likely to require more frequent maintenance and upgrades than underground fiber.
Google is thought to be experimenting with a wireless technology called pCell, developed by Artemis Networks. Earlier this year, Google announced plans to buy an internet service provider called Webpass, which has been testing the pCell technology. Google has delayed Google Fiber builds in Silicon Valley, reportedly telling its workforce that it may “go aerial” instead.
2. iPhone manufacturer Foxconn is set to buy Sharp for $3.8 billion. The Chinese company will acquire a 66% stake in the troubled Japanese consumer electronics maker. Sharp’s chief executive, Kozo Takahashi, is resigning. The company is a leading maker of iPhone displays, and Foxconn hopes to accelerate Sharp’s move into organic light emitting diode displays.
3. Foxconn may also be making the next Nokia smartphones. According to Android Headlines, the latest speculation on Nokia’s eagerly awaited return to the smartphone market includes reports that Foxconn will manufacture two Android 7.0 smartphones designed by Nokia.
4. T-Mobile US is set for another round of promotional giveaways next Tuesday. This time the carrier is offering its customers the chance to win a $10,000 shopping spree at the Gilt showroom in New York City. Those who aren’t lucky enough to win can still get a $15 Gilt gift certificate and one of two T-Mobile US T-shirts, which will turn the company’s customers into walking T-Mobile US advertisements. One shirt asks “Is it Tuesday yet?” and the other says “Get Thanked.”
5. Thanking customers is also part of AT&T’s marketing campaign. The carrier is using the tagline “AT&T thanks,” and banking giant Citigroup took the carrier to court in an effort to stop the campaign. Citigroup said “AT&T thanks” is too similar to its own “thankyou” campaign. U.S. District Judge Katherine Forrest rejected Citigroup’s bid for an injunction.
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