FCC plans spectrum auction and new drone access to 800MHz band
The proposals would give wireless providers and drone operators more room to operate if the commission approves them later this month.
The FCC has put forward three spectrum-and-connectivity rule changes that could reshape direct-to-device wireless services, with a vote expected later this month. Its plan includes revising D2D rules to allow more flexible terrestrial, satellite, and hybrid arrangements, plus auctioning 25 megahertz of mid-band spectrum for terrestrial networks, D2D systems, or both. The agency also wants to open the 800MHz cellular band to drones, which would free up about 50 megahertz for UAV use. Separately, the FCC recently approved SpaceX’s request for a 15,000-satellite system at 330km, adding to Starlink’s existing constellation and underscoring the company’s push into satellite connectivity.
Why it matters
Together, the proposals would loosen how direct-to-device services can be structured, add 25 megahertz of mid-band spectrum to the market, and open about 50 megahertz for drones in the 800MHz cellular band. That could change which services can share spectrum and how much capacity is available for terrestrial, satellite, hybrid, and UAV use.
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Sources
- Engadget