FCC spectrum boost for satellite D2D
October 8, 2026

By Colin Mann



Continuing the FCC’s work to unleash next-gen wireless connectivity, Chairman Brendan Carr has announced three new proposals as part of the FCC’s spectrum abundance agenda. The proposals, which will be voted on at the Commission’s October 29th Open Meeting, include a new auction of 25 megahertz of prime spectrum in the 1675-1695 MHz and 2020-2025 MHz bands, new rules to build on the success of ‘direct-to-device’ services and final rules to allow drone operations within the 800 MHz cellular band.

“Thanks to President Trump, America’s wireless leadership is back,” declared Carr. “Across the board, speeds are up, prices are down, and competition is increasing. Today’s transformational proposals look to build on these wins—utilising next-gen technologies to streamline fast and ubiquitous connectivity for terrestrial wireless services, innovative direct-to-device connectivity, and consumer drones.”


“Our proposal to auction 25 megahertz of prime spectrum will continue to create tremendous economic value for the American people, following President Trump and Congress’ restoration of the FCC’s spectrum auction authority in the One Big Beautiful Bill. The ‘direct-to-device’ proposals work to continue leveraging this cutting-edge tech to end cell phone dead zones and provide service directly from next-gen satellite constellations to your smartphone. And our final rules on drones further President Trump’s call for drone dominance, providing the emerging American drone economy with usable spectrum to support the next generation of commercial and defense innovations. This comes on top of our latest action to light up key spectrum bands purchased by SpaceX for its 15,000-satellite direct-to-cell system.”