The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced it will vote on a proposal to auction 25 megahertz of spectrum aimed at supporting direct-to-device (D2D) services from satellites to smartphones.
This move, set for a vote on October 29, is part of a broader initiative to make an additional 482 megahertz available for supplemental coverage from space and to modernize regulations for D2D services. Companies such as SpaceX and Amazon stand to gain from these proposals as they work to enhance their satellite networks.
Notably, Amazon has sought FCC approval to launch over 5,100 internet satellites to provide connectivity to underserved users, and it recently announced an acquisition of Globalstar for more than $11.5 billion to bolster its satellite internet capabilities.
Meanwhile, the FCC has also granted SpaceX approval for a new direct-to-cell system involving 15,000 satellites, utilizing spectrum previously purchased from EchoStar. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr emphasized that these proposals aim to eliminate cell phone dead zones by leveraging advanced satellite technology.
Additionally, a proposal to remove restrictions on drone operations in the 800 MHz Cellular band is also on the agenda, aligning with efforts to support the emerging drone economy