● Covered by 2 sources · 2 reportsMedium impact2 neutral
FCC Proposes Spectrum Auction for Direct-to-Device Services and Drone Operations
Key points
- FCC to vote on auctioning 25MHz of mid-band spectrum for D2D services.
- Proposal to seek comment on making an additional 482MHz of spectrum available.
- Changes could benefit companies like SpaceX and Amazon in satellite D2D.
- FCC will also vote on allowing drone operations in the 800 MHz Cellular band.
Spectrum Auction for Direct-to-Device Services
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced it will vote on a proposal to auction 25 megahertz of "prime spectrum" to support direct-to-device (D2D) services from satellites to smartphones. This mid-band spectrum is intended for flexible-use terrestrial networks, D2D operations, or a hybrid of both.
The FCC will also vote on October 29 to seek public comment on a proposal to make an additional 482 megahertz of spectrum available for supplemental coverage from space. This initiative aims to modernize FCC rules for D2D services in the licensed spectrum.
Potential Beneficiaries and Market Impact
These proposals could benefit companies such as SpaceX and Amazon, which are expanding D2D services with satellite networks. Amazon, for instance, requested FCC approval in July to launch up to 5,105 internet satellites for direct-to-device connectivity, targeting users unserved or underserved by existing wireless providers. Amazon also acquired Globalstar in August to boost its Leo satellite internet business.
SpaceX already holds spectrum licenses from EchoStar and recently received FCC approval for a system of 15,000 satellites to operate at 330km, indicating its push into D2D systems.
Overhauling D2D Regulations
Beyond the spectrum auction, the FCC suggested overhauling its rules for direct-to-device (D2D) service. The stated goal is to "promote more flexible terrestrial, satellite, and hybrid business arrangements," indicating a broader effort to adapt regulations to evolving wireless connectivity technologies.
Drone Operations in 800 MHz Band
In a separate but related proposal, the FCC will vote on eliminating an outdated restriction that currently prevents drone operations in the 800 MHz Cellular band. This change would open new spectrum for drone operations, allowing for more flexible use of this band.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
The daily brief
One email each morning: the day's tech stories, clustered across outlets and summarized. No account needed.
One email a day. Unsubscribe in one click, any time.
Today's brief
Spend a few minutes, get the whole day. Every topic's top stories in one hands-free rundown — listen, watch, or read the transcript.
▶ Play today's brief
New every morning, and the back catalogue is archived by date.
How outlets covered it
The FCC has proposed rule changes including an overhaul of direct-to-device (D2D) service regulations, an auction of 25MHz of mid-band spectrum, and allowing drones to operate on the 800MHz cellular band. These proposals aim to promote flexible terrestrial, satellite, and hybrid D2D arrangements and open new spectrum for drone operations.
The FCC will vote on auctioning 25MHz of spectrum for direct-to-device satellite services and seeking comment on making an additional 482MHz available. These proposals could benefit companies like SpaceX and Amazon, which are developing satellite-based direct-to-device connectivity.