FCC Chairwoman Proposes Expansion of Unlicensed Operation in 6 GHz Band
FCC Proposes Expansion of Unlicensed Operation for Very Low Power Devices in 6 GHz Band
In a move that could revolutionize the way we use wireless technology, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) chairwoman, Jessica Rosenworcel, has put forth a proposal to expand unlicensed operation for very low power (VLP) devices in the 6 Gigahertz (GHz) band.
The proposal aims to open up the remaining 350 megahertz of the band for indoor and outdoor use by VLP devices, without the need for a frequency coordination system. This follows last year’s decision by the FCC to open up 850 megahertz of the band under the same conditions.
Rosenworcel stated, “Opening up access to the airwaves without licenses makes it possible to innovate without permission and to develop low-power wireless technologies that change the way we live and work.”
Supporters of the proposal, including Wi-Fi and unlicensed spectrum proponents, believe that this expansion is crucial for supporting next-generation innovations in areas such as smart homes, Internet of Things (IoT), telemedicine, and augmented/virtual reality (AR/VR).
Major tech companies like Apple, Google, and Meta have been advocating for the opening up of the additional airwaves, citing minimal interference from VLP devices. However, utility companies, who are incumbents in the band, have expressed concerns about potential interference from unlicensed users.
Despite some reservations from utility companies and public safety officials, last year’s order to open up a portion of the 6 GHz band was approved unanimously. The proposed expansion is not currently on the agenda for the FCC’s upcoming October meeting.
The potential benefits of this proposal are vast, with the Wi-Fi Alliance stating that expanded access to the 6 GHz spectrum will support transformative technologies while maintaining the reliability of critical operations in the band. As the FCC continues to explore the possibilities of unlicensed operation for VLP devices, the tech industry eagerly awaits the outcome of this groundbreaking proposal.
