The Federal Communications Commission will consider a 25-megahertz spectrum auction and a proposal to update rules for satellite-to-phone services, steps that could benefit SpaceX and Amazon.
The FCC said it would also vote on Oct. 29 on whether to seek public comment on making an additional 482 megahertz available for satellite coverage and modernising rules for direct-to-device services in licensed spectrum. A separate proposal would remove a restriction on drone operations in the 800 MHz cellular band.
SpaceX and Amazon are expanding satellite networks designed to connect directly with smartphones. Amazon has sought approval to launch as many as 5,105 internet satellites and announced an $11.5 billion-plus deal to buy Globalstar in August.
The FCC’s Space Bureau approved SpaceX’s application for a 15,000-satellite direct-to-cell system on Tuesday. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said the proposals could help close mobile dead zones and support commercial and defense uses of drones.
The commission has not yet held the votes. The proposals’ effects will depend on the final decisions and how the spectrum is used.