FCC Acts on 6 GHz Wi-Fi Band

The FCC announced on Nov. 3 that it conditionally has approved 13 automated frequency response (AFC) database systems that are designed to enable communications service providers to share spectrum in the 6 GHz band. The action is important for fixed wireless access (FWA) providers because it paves the way for providers to use the spectrum on an unlicensed basis for outdoor or indoor standard power use.

In its announcement, the FCC explained “conditional approval: means the 13 companies can “finalize development for operations in the 6 GHz band and prepare for the testing phase.”

The 6 GHz band includes a 1,200 MHz swath of spectrum with 160 MHz channels that can support speeds of 1 Gbps, according to companies that have used the bands on an experimental basis.

The 12 companies whose AFC systems have received conditional approval are Broadcom, Google, Comsearch, Sony Group, Kyrio, Key Bridge Wireless, Nokia Innovations, Federated Wireless, Wireless Broadband Alliance, Wi-Fi Alliance (WFA), Qualcomm, Plume Design, and RED Technologies.