FCC: Brendan Carr Proposes Unlicensed Spectrum for D2D

Under a new proceeding proposed by Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr, the FCC is exploring a new framework to allow everyday wireless devices to use 225MHz of unlicensed spectrum to connect directly with FCC-authorised orbiting satellites, using direct-to-device (D2D) technology. 

D2D enables mobile phones and other consumer hardware to connect seamlessly to satellite broadband services without relying on traditional terrestrial cell towers.

A boost for space connectivity

This regulatory initiative seeks to examine potential reforms that would permit hardware operating in some of the Part 15 unlicensed bands to communicate with FCC-authorised spacecraft on both uplink and downlink.

These Part 15 consumer devices encompass everyday technologies, including Wi-Fi transmitters, Bluetooth systems, medical imaging hardware, wireless microphones, and Internet of Things (IoT) sensors.

An active market

The proposed Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) arrives amid a wave of private investment. According to the FCC, more than US$40bn has flowed into the American space economy for D2D technologies, in the wake of the FCC adopting its Supplemental Coverage from Space framework.

In 2025, SpaceX agreed to acquire 65MHz of D2D spectrum from EchoStar that is now valued at around US$19.6bn.

In the same year, AST declared a US$550m agreement to use L-band spectrum currently leased to Ligado.

In 2026, Amazon and RocketLab also secured separate deals totalling nearly US$20bn to buy Globalstar and Iridium, respectively.

These transactions were supported by the FCC Space Bureau, which recently provided legal clarity to confirm the exclusive D2D spectrum rights held by American innovators.

Paving the way to the devices of tomorrow

“Direct-to-device means fast and ubiquitous connectivity provided directly from next-gen satellite constellations to your smartphone or device,” says Brendan. 

“Coupling that resource with the innovation hotbed that is our unlicensed wireless device ecosystem could be a game changer.

“This new effort brings together two of the most cutting-edge areas of wireless technology in ways that can help bring connectivity to ‘dead zones’ and open doors to tomorrow’s tech ideas”, he adds.

Expanding space communications

If the full Commission votes to adopt the proposal at its upcoming August Open Meeting, the NPRM will support connecting unlicensed Part 15 wireless hardware to space services and propose letting these devices operate on-board and between spacecraft.

As part of the regulator’s ongoing work to support the space economy, it will also explore other scenarios where Part 15 devices might operate effectively and safely in space.