Wireless Telecommunications

Federal Communications Commissioner Geoffrey Starks spoke at the 6G Symposium about the benefits and challenges of 6G, and what the FCC has done to advance the development of 5G. "I believe 6G presents both an environmental challenge as well as an opportunity. Like 5G, 6G has the potential to increase our energy efficiency and reduce our emissions in areas like manufacturing, agriculture, and transportation. But we simply cannot take this for granted.

With the “fiber wars” underway, cable’s got some catching up to do to ensure it’s not left in the dust with network deployments. Air Wireless, a newly formed company made up of former Comcast, Liberty Global and Vodafone execs, claims it has the solution with its proprietary wireless DOCSIS platform. The technology is “more or less” like fixed wireless access, said Air Wireless CRO Alex Salamon, as it uses radio frequencies to send internet signals.

And just like that, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) granted Dish parent company EchoStar’s request for more time to meet 5G buildout requirements in exchange for accelerated deployments in certain markets and other commitments. The approval appears to have come in near record time as the FCC typically isn’t known for quick decision-making, to put it mildly.

The House of Representatives passed the Future Uses of Technology Upholding Reliable and Enhanced (FUTURE) Networks Act (H.R. 1513), legislation that directs the Federal Communications Commission to bring together industry leaders, public interest groups and government experts to establish a 6G Task Force. Specifically, the FUTURE Networks Act requires the FCC to establish a 6G Task Force comprised of industry, government, and public interest representatives to issue a report on:

The Public Service Department (PSD) announces the 2024 Mobile Wireless Drive Test: Public Input Survey. This survey allows Vermonters to highlight areas they know where Mobile Wireless Coverage is limited or unavailable, as they are the people who live, work, and drive in these areas every day. The survey includes the ability to enter a specific address or highlight a roadway with limited or unavailable service. The data collected from this survey will assist the Department in mapping the route for the upcoming 2024 Mobile Wireless Drive Test.

On September 10, 2024, Federal Communications Commissioner Geoffrey Starks delivered remarks to the Competitive Carriers Association (CCA) at its annual convention at Amelia Island (FL). Commissioner Starks highlighted a number of broadband-related topics in his speech, including the developments in wireless technology since his 2019 CCA speech, the Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act, and the need for more affordability measures like the Affordable Connectivity program (ACP). "Let me be clear," said Starks.

Organizations representing rural wireline internet providers have stated their preference for continuing to favor federal funding for fiber-based broadband construction. However, many participating in a recent National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) comment round said the agency is correct in opening the door to greater funding of alternative technologies, including unlicensed fixed wireless and low Earth orbiting (LEO) satellite systems.

T-Mobile expects to pass between 12 million and 15 million more households with fiber by 2030 through its fiber partnerships, company executives told attendees at a September 18 T-Mobile investor event. The company’s fiber partnerships include a joint venture with investment firm EQT that will acquire Lumos and a joint venture with KKR to acquire Metronet. Unsurprisingly, T-Mobile sees strong potential to convert customers who currently use the company’s fixed wireless service to fiber.

Starlink has added a $100 “congestion charge” to certain new subscribers of their Residential Services. The one-time fee applies to new service plans within areas of “network congestion.” The Support section of the Starlink website provides details of the new charge. “In areas with network congestion, there is an additional one-time charge to purchase Starlink Residential services.

Tarana Wireless is making more inroads with the US cable industry, announcing that three operators are using its platform to deploy fixed wireless access (FWA) services for a variety of use cases.