US FCC to vote on auction of 25 MHz of spectrum for satellite communications — CNBC

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will vote on a proposal to hold an auction for 25 MHz of radio frequency spectrum to support direct-to-satellite smartphone services. This was reported by CNBC.

Additional spectrum for coverage from space

On October 29, the FCC will also vote on launching a public comment period on a proposal to open an additional 482 MHz of spectrum for supplemental coverage from space. The regulator also proposes modernizing rules for direct-to-device services in licensed spectrum.

FCC Chair Brendan Carr said these proposals should help eliminate areas without mobile coverage and enable smartphones to connect to next-generation satellite constellations.

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SpaceX and Amazon

According to the FCC, the initiatives could benefit SpaceX and Amazon, which are expanding direct-to-device services through satellite networks. In July, Amazon asked the FCC for permission to launch up to 5,105 internet satellites for such connectivity. The company said it is targeting users who are not served or are insufficiently served by current wireless operators.

In August, Amazon announced plans to acquire Globalstar in a deal worth more than $11.5 billion to develop its Leo satellite internet business. Meanwhile, the FCC's Space Bureau on Tuesday approved SpaceX's application for a direct-to-cellular system with 15,000 satellites. It will use spectrum that SpaceX acquired from EchoStar earlier this year.

Separately, the FCC will vote to eliminate an outdated restriction that prevents the use of drones in the 800 MHz cellular band.