FCC schedules vote on satellite-to-phone spectrum auction proposal

The FCC said it will vote on a proposal to auction 25 MHz of spectrum for satellite-to-smartphone services and to seek public comment on making another 482 MHz available for supplemental satellite coverage. The commission also scheduled a vote on removing a restriction on drone operations in the 800 MHz cellular band; the proposals are not yet final rules.

Why it matters. The proposals could change spectrum access for satellite connectivity and drone operators, affecting companies including SpaceX and Amazon and the broader wireless industry.