T-Mobile asks the FCC’s permission to keep using unlicensed 600 MHz spectrum

At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, T-Mobile wrangled additional 600 MHz spectrum from a number of companies and from unused spectrum held by the Federal Communications Commission to bolster its capacity for Americans during a crisis. On July 27, T-Mobile filed a sixth application with the FCC for an extension until November 8, 2021 of its special temporary authority to continue using some spectrum in the 600 MHz band that has not been assigned. T-Mobile said in its filing, “Grant of this request is in the public interest because it will allow consumers and businesses to continue to benefit from the additional capacity that the additional spectrum provides.” It said this capacity is needed more than ever because people’s “life and work patterns produced by the pandemic” have permanently shifted. “This relief can be provided by simply permitting otherwise unused spectrum – for which there are no current plans for licensing – to continue to serve the public,” stated T-Mobile. The company said that use of 600 MHz spectrum is particularly important along covered US-Mexico border areas because there have been interference issues in its 700 MHz band due to Mexico’s use of that spectrum.