The FCC would be required to begin collecting data on how people are using smart devices and 5G networks under a bill proposed by Rep. Suzan DelBene (D-WA). She says the measure is aimed at preparing Congress for meeting the nation’s connectivity infrastructure needs.
“IoT and smart devices are growing in popularity in our homes and businesses to improve safety, efficiency, and convenience but that would grind to a halt if we do not have enough 5G spectrum available,” DelBene stated. “The United States can’t afford to wait around.”
DelBene introduced legislation to direct the FCC to collect data on the growing use of 5G mobile networks and IoT devices. “In order for the federal government to properly address spectrum requirements, Congress needs to understand the full scope of future spectrum demand,” reads the bill, H.R. 904, which DelBene is calling the “IoT Readiness Act of 2023.”
Some estimates suggest demand for 5G services will see compound annual growth anywhere from 25 percent to nearly 60 percent over this decade, as more people adopt the new service with its faster download speeds, particularly for video, reports GeekWire. Industry forecasters see demand for connected devices growing at annual rates of 18 percent to 26 percent for the rest of the decade, with that growth accelerating over time as more people and companies adopt IoT platforms.
With those kinds of projections, it’s essential for Congress to understand exactly what consumers need, a DelBene spokesman told GeekWire. “We need the data this bill would collect to understand the spectrum needs for the growth of IoT devices and to inform Congress about appropriate policy changes,” the spokesperson said.
The bill would instruct the FCC to determine growth trends for 5G networks and IoT devices, and whether that growth will create a need for more spectrum. The FCC would have 180 days to compile the data for Congress, and then the commission would track and submit updated reports every two years. The bill will be referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
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