VulcanSpectrum
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Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen sells LTE spectrum to AT&T
Here's one straight from the depths of left field. If you'll recall, Microsoft's co-founder Paul Allen was considering buying a bit of spectrum from the 700MHz auction after founding Vulcan Spectrum LLC. Evidently, the guy's bid ended in a win, but he's obviously not so keen on getting in on the flagging MVNO business. According to a document filed with the FCC, Allen has agreed to sell the licenses he owns -- which cover sections of Oregon and Washington -- to AT&T, though the carrier isn't disclosing financial terms. According to AT&T spokesman Michael Coe, the company is making the purchase to "meet customer demand and to support its transition to LTE." Unfortunately, Mr. Allen wasn't available to say what he was planning to do with the proceeds, though we did hear that one Kayne West was available to reiterate his belief that LTE was the best of all time.[Via phonescoop]
Paul Allen: Microsoft co-founder, 700MHz auction candidate
When you're the co-founder of Microsoft there's always that nagging question of what to do with your millions billions. How 'bout bidding for some of that hot 700MHz action in the sweetspot of US spectrum? Seems that Paul Allen has filed to bid in the FCC auction with an entity called Vulcan Spectrum LLC -- an investment company. Hint: Allen is also the majority shareholder of cable operator Charter Communications. Other notables on the list include Google and Verizon Wireless, naturally, as well as Qualcomm -- the protector of patents and MediaFLO mogul. Remember, Qualcomm already holds 700MHz licenses obtained in a June 2003 FCC auction. It all goes down on January 24th when the bidding begins.[Thanks, Grant G.]
