On January 29, 2026, the FCC adopted a Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) to enhance the use of unlicensed devices in the 6 GHz band. The Order adopted final rules that expand the use of a new class of devices—geofenced variable power (GVP) devices—in the U-NII-5 and U-NII-7 portions of the 6 GHz band. On February 25, 2026, the new rules were published in the Federal Register and are effective April 27, 2026.
Additionally, the Commission proposed to update its rules to allow operators to take into account building entry loss in calculations, enable low-power indoor (LPI) access points on cruise ships, and modify other 6 GHz rules. Comments on the FNPRM are due March 23, 2026, and Reply Comments are due April 21, 2026.
