FCC proposes spectrum over 24 GHz for next-generation mobile

5G networks are still several years off, but the Federal Communications Commission is already gearing up for their deployment by drafting rules that would allow companies to broadcast cellular signals in extremely high frequency spectrums. These proposed rules are an opportunity to move forward on creating a regulatory environment in which these emerging next-generation mobile technologies – such as so-called 5G mobile service – can potentially take hold and deliver benefits to consumers, businesses, and the US economy.

The FCC vote last was not the final however, and the FCC also says it will allow a mix of licensed, unlicensed, and shared spectrum. The NPRM further seeks to provide a path for a variety of platforms to coexist, including the increased use of satellites. It will play a critical role in the US wireless industry’s migration to 5G. “Many expect that these engineering advances will lead to 5G networks that will offer much higher data speeds and substantially lower latency than what commercial mobile services offer today”.

With today’s action, the FCC is taking steps to unlock the mobile broadband and unlicensed potential of spectrum at the frontier above 24 GHz.

“However, efforts to open additional lower-band spectrum will also be required to enable the potential of 5G and the Internet of Things”, Belcher said. Finally, the NPRM seeks comment on other bands above 24 GHz that may be considered in the future.

At a meeting of the FCC this week it proposed new schemes which could expand the speed and capacity of 5G by creating a more flexible interpretation of service rules for the 28GHz, 37GHz, 39GHz and 64-71GHz bands. “Promoting flexible, dynamic spectrum use has been the bedrock that has helped the United States become a world leader in wireless”, Wheeler wrote.