The Federal Communications Commission has adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeking comment on a framework that would allow unlicensed devices operating in certain spectrum bands to communicate directly with satellites. The proceeding reflects the Commission’s view that direct-to-device technology is rapidly evolving and could expand connectivity beyond traditional terrestrial networks, potentially supporting a wide range of consumer, industrial, and Internet of Things applications. The FCC seeks comment on spectrum allocation issues, licensing requirements, technical and service rules, equipment authorization, international coordination, and national security considerations associated with D2D operations.
The FCC proposes examining the use of several unlicensed bands, including the 2.4 GHz and 5.7 GHz bands, for satellite communications and seeks input on how to enable such operations while protecting existing users from harmful interference. Comments will be due 60 days after publication in the Federal Register, with reply comments due 90 days after publication.
