The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Tuesday unanimously approved opening up unused frequencies on the broadcast television spectrum for wireless use.

In a 5-0 vote, the FCC voted to allow `new, sophisticated wireless devices to operate in broadcast television spectrum` known as `white spaces.`

`The rules adopted today will allow for the use of these new and innovative types of unlicensed devices in the unused spectrum to provide broadband data and other services for consumers and businesses,` the FCC said in a statement.

The ruling is a victory for technology giants such as Microsoft, Google and Motorola which had been battling to open up the so-called `white spaces` for public use by a new generation of wireless Internet devices.

Television networks and groups which use wireless microphones such as Broadway producers and professional sports leagues had opposed the move, arguing that it would cause interference with their signals.

But the FCC said the new rules `include numerous safeguards to protect incumbent services against harmful interference.`

`Wireless microphones will be protected in a variety of ways,` it said.

FCC chairman Kevin Martin said the move would allow for the creation of `WiFi on steroids.`

`It has the potential to improve wireless broadband connectivity and inspire an ever-widening array of new Internet based products and services for consumers,` he said.

`I fully expect that everything from enhanced home broadband networks, to intelligent peer-to-peer devices, and even small communications networks will come into being in TV `white spaces.``

Google co-founder Larry Page welcomed the FCC move.

`All eyes are on the presidential election today, but another important vote just took place at the Federal Communications Commission,` Page said in a statement. `This is a clear victory for Internet users and anyone who wants good wireless communications.`

`Google has worked hard on this matter with other tech companies and public interest groups because we think that this spectrum will help put better and faster Internet connections in the hands of the public,` he said.