FCC Grants First 2.5 GHz Auction Licenses

The Federal Communications Commission's Wireless Telecommunications Bureau granted the first batch of new, flexible-use, county-based overlay wireless licenses made available in the 2.5 GHz auction, Auction 108. With most of the available spectrum in the 2.5 GHz band located in rural areas, this auction provides vital spectrum resources to support wireless services in rural communities. The FCC granted 51 of the 68 total long-form applications received from winning bidders in Auction 108, following a thorough review of the applications and a period of public comment. Of the 51 applications granted, 15 applicants obtained small business bidding credits and 23 obtained rural service provider bidding credits. Staff review of the remaining Auction 108 long-form applications remains ongoing.