The US Federal Communications Commission is preparing to open additional spectrum for 5G and direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity, as regulators seek to accommodate growing demand for wireless services beyond terrestrial networks.
The FCC is set to vote on proposals covering a new spectrum auction and changes to the regulatory framework governing satellite-to-mobile services. The measures form part of a wider programme aimed at increasing spectrum availability for emerging wireless technologies.
“Next-gen technologies – from D2D and drones to 5G and 6G offerings – have the spectrum resources they need to advance U.S. leadership,” FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said.
The commission plans to seek comment on an auction of 25MHz of mid-band spectrum across the 1675–1695MHz and 2020–2025MHz bands. The spectrum would be available for flexible use, including 5G and D2D services.
The proposal comes as satellite operators and mobile network providers accelerate efforts to connect conventional smartphones and other devices directly to satellites when terrestrial networks are unavailable.
The FCC is also proposing to update its supplemental coverage from space (SCS) rules, introduced in 2024 to allow wireless carriers to lease spectrum to satellite providers for D2D services in areas without terrestrial coverage.
Carr said the framework had demonstrated the potential of the model but now needed to be updated.
“It’s become clear in recent years that the rules need a major refresh,” he said.
The proposed changes would make more spectrum available for leasing while reducing what the FCC describes as regulatory barriers to transactions and activity in the secondary spectrum market.
For mobile operators and satellite companies, the changes could make it easier to structure partnerships for D2D services, an emerging market that could extend cellular connectivity to remote areas without requiring additional terrestrial infrastructure.
The regulatory changes reflect the increasing convergence of terrestrial and satellite networks. Rather than operating as entirely separate connectivity systems, satellite services are increasingly being integrated with mobile networks to provide coverage where conventional infrastructure cannot reach.
The FCC is also proposing to open 50MHz of low-band spectrum for commercial drone operations by removing an existing restriction on the use of the 800MHz band.
Carr said the measure was intended to support the growth of the US drone industry, which the commission views as strategically important for both commercial and defence applications.
“Our decision furthers President Trump’s call for American drone dominance by eliminating a restriction that has foreclosed access to 50 megahertz of low-band spectrum,” Carr said.
The FCC will also vote on measures concerning the security of electronic equipment testing and certification. The proposed rules would restrict the use of test laboratories and certification bodies in countries that do not provide reciprocal access to US facilities.
The commission said the measure was aimed at protecting the integrity of the testing system used to authorise devices for the US market, including smartphones, earbuds and vehicle control systems.
“Many of these devices have to be tested and certified by test labs to ensure consumer safety, network reliability, and national security,” Carr said.
According to the FCC, 82% of electronics covered by equipment authorisation applications in 2025 were tested in a single country that does not recognise US-based laboratories.
The commission will separately consider new requirements for international telecommunications carriers holding, or applying for, Section 214 licences. The proposals cover areas including foreign ownership reporting, third-party access, cybersecurity and supply chains.
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