We recognize that we will need to make sufficient spectrum available to accommodate future generations of wireless services that offer enhanced data, voice, and broadband capabilities. We are committed to taking the steps necessary to make adequate spectrum available for future wireless needs, consistent with balancing the legitimate interests of the many other existing uses. I am pleased that the Administration places a high priority on this important issue, as reflected in the Presidential Decision Memorandum released today. We look forward to working with the Executive Branch in our respective spectrum management roles to ensure that the American public has widespread and timely access to the next generation of advanced wireless services. As documented in the report, 3G is likely to provide substantial benefits to consumers, significant profits to producers of 3G products and services, and complementary benefits to related industries.
Telecommunications is extremely important to the U.S. economy.
The telecommunications sector represented 3 percent of GDP in 1998, having grown at a 7 percent annual rate over the previous 10 years. By year-end 2000 there will be over 600 million wireless subscribers worldwide. However, today's wireless devices are designed to transmit voice and brief text messages and cannot handle digital multimedia and other high-bandwidth Internet content. The benefits from introducing new communications technologies can be tremendous. As new wireless technologies were introduced, consumers benefited from improved services, cost reductions leading to lower prices, and increased competition.