The FCC Commissioners voted Thursday to explore repurposing up to 550 MHz in the 12.7 to 13.25 GHz band (12.7 GHz band) for next-generation wireless services. The agency expects the inquiry is the first step in providing for more intensive use of the 12.7 GHz band. This would unlock what the Commissioners say is a “significant expanse” of upper mid-band frequencies that may play a key role in delivering on next-generation wireless services, including 5G, 6G, and beyond.
During the vote, FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said finding more spectrum for wireless or other use is going to require new thinking, because the future will be different than the past. “The focus on phones will give way to connectivity that touches everything in the economy. In fact, if we do this right, our phones will be the least interesting part of our wireless future. Because we are on the cusp of new forms of connectivity that will boost productivity and make industrial processes safer in factories, shipyards, and warehouses,” said Rosenworcel.
Rosenworcel explained: “We will see fresh competition in the delivery of household broadband, increasing the number of ways families get online. Plus, using next generation wireless technology in the power, transportation, and manufacturing sectors could lead to emissions savings that could help put us on the course to reach future climate targets.”
This new proceeding is the latest in a series of FCC initiatives to ensure that mid-band spectrum is available for current and future consumer and business wireless needs. According to the industry and the Commission, mid-band spectrum offers an ideal blend of capacity and coverage and can support faster speeds and wider coverage. The 12.7 GHz band is believed to be ideally suited for mobile broadband use as it is already allocated for terrestrial mobile services on a primary basis domestically.
In a Notice of Inquiry, the FCC seeks information on how the Commission could encourage more efficient and intensive use of the 12.7 GHz band. Given existing incumbent operations, the agency also seeks comment on whether and how to provide opportunities for new uses while protecting the investments made by incumbents and avoiding disruption to their operations.
That’s why the FCC asks for public input concerning methodologies to promote coexistence or sharing between potential new entrants and existing users and whether some or all of the current incumbents should be relocated. It also asks how much interference protection new 12.7 GHz band operations would need to provide incumbent services in adjacent bands.
By Leslie Stimson, Inside Towers Washington Bureau Chief
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