UK’s communication regulator, Ofcom is considering using FM Radio white space for providing broadband connectivity in rural areas, where the costs of laying cables or otherwise supplying bandwidth are much higher.

The regulator is considering including FM radio airwaves in the unlicensed usage of white space technology. The airwaves, which are freed up when FM radio goes digital, could be used for connecting areas that are left out of the high speed internet. The government is aiming to complete the switch over of FM radio by 2015 but some say that the date is unrealistic.

Meanwhile, the technology has gathered momentum in recent months. Telecom operators are already testing the technology using free space amongst digital television channels to offer broadband connections in rural areas in a more cost effective manner.

"Spectrum is a resource that is in huge demand, fuelled by the recent explosion in smart phones and other wireless technologies," Ed Richards, Ofcom chief executive said in a statement.

He pointed out that there is only a limited about of free space amongst FM channels, indicating that it requires a more creative approach. “White space devices could offer the creative solution we are looking for,” he added.