FCC Proposes Mid-Band Auction and Drone Frequency Unlock

The Federal Communications Commission has introduced three proposals aimed at restructuring wireless connectivity regulations, with a vote scheduled for later this month. The initiatives primarily focus on expanding direct-to-device (D2D) communication capabilities.

Under the first proposal, the FCC seeks to modernize rules governing D2D services to encourage more adaptable business models involving terrestrial, satellite, and hybrid networks. In a related move, the second proposal outlines an auction for 25 megahertz of mid-band spectrum. Bids would be directed toward flexible-use terrestrial networks, innovative D2D operations, or a combination of both, potentially attracting tech giants like Amazon that are seeking to enter the satellite-based cellular market.

SpaceX remains a key player in this sector, holding spectrum licenses acquired from EchoStar and recently receiving FCC approval to deploy a constellation of 15,000 satellites at an altitude of 330 kilometers. This expansion of its existing Starlink network, which already includes over 11,000 satellites, is distinct from the company’s earlier plans to launch orbital data centers for artificial intelligence computing.

The third proposal would permit unmanned aerial vehicles to operate on the 800MHz cellular band, a frequency currently off-limits to such devices. If adopted, the change would provide approximately 50 megahertz of bandwidth for UAVs. This move comes amid a year in which the agency has tightened restrictions on drones considered security risks due to foreign components or advanced technologies like LiDAR sensors.