Observed Signal · Oct 7, 2026 · Policy Update · Source: CNBC Technology · Impact: 4/5 · Sentiment: Positive
FCC to auction 25MHz of 'prime spectrum' for direct-to-device
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will vote on a proposal to auction 25 megahertz of 'prime spectrum' to support direct-to-device (D2D) services from satellites to smartphones. The agency will also consider an additional 482MHz of spectrum for supplemental coverage and modernized rules for D2D services, and eliminating an outdated restriction on drone operations in the 800 MHz Cellular band. The proposals could benefit SpaceX and Amazon, which have expanded their satellite D2D networks. Amazon recently requested approval to launch up to 5,105 internet satellites and announced its acquisition of Globalstar for over $11.5 billion. SpaceX also received approval for its direct-to-cell system using 15,000 satellites and spectrum purchased from EchoStar. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr framed the move as supporting American leadership in space and drone technologies.
This FCC decision could significantly impact the satellite-to-phone connectivity market, potentially opening new advertising channels and expanding reach for telecom and satellite companies like Amazon and SpaceX, with implications for AdTech in terms of new inventory and data.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- FCC will vote on auctioning 25MHz of 'prime spectrum' for direct-to-device services.
- FCC will also consider making an additional 482MHz of spectrum available for supplemental coverage.
- Amazon asked FCC to approve launching up to 5,105 internet satellites for direct-to-device connectivity.
- Amazon announced acquisition of Globalstar for over $11.5 billion.
- SpaceX received approval for its direct-to-cell system with 15,000 satellites using spectrum purchased from EchoStar.
Connected Companies & Entities
3 Entities mapped“SpaceX purchased spectrum from EchoStar earlier this year....”
“The FCC granted an application for SpaceX's new direct-to-cell system of 15,000 satellites....”
“Amazon in July asked the FCC to approve launching up to 5,105 internet satellites....”
Ontology Mapping & Concepts
Related Market Signals & Shifts
Recent verified developments and strategic activity across this market segment.
FCC to Explore Unlicensed Spectrum for Direct-to-Device
On August 6, 2026 the Federal Communications Commission voted to explore new ways to allow unlicensed wireless devices to communicate directly with satellites. The Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking examining reforms to enable devices operating in certain Part 15 bands to connect with FCC-authorized satellites, potentially providing WiFi to consumers and businesses and enabling use of such equipment on and between FCC-approved spacecraft. The move follows a July proposal to use unlicensed spectrum to support direct-to-device (D2D) connections. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr described the effort as combining satellite constellations with the unlicensed device ecosystem to expand connectivity into dead zones.
FCC Approves EchoStar Spectrum Sale to SpaceX, AT&T
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission approved EchoStar Corporation's planned sale of wireless spectrum totaling about $40 billion to SpaceX and AT&T. EchoStar will transfer roughly 50 MHz to AT&T for $23 billion (30 MHz mid-band, 20 MHz low-band) and 65 MHz to SpaceX for $17 billion. The FCC granted SpaceX waivers to use the spectrum across terrestrial, space-based, and hybrid architectures to support Starlink device-to-device capabilities, and imposed accelerated buildout requirements on AT&T. Regulators also required EchoStar to fund a $2.4 billion escrow to satisfy prior construction-related obligations and established a hybrid MVNO arrangement between AT&T and EchoStar to preserve Boost Mobile. The approval aims to speed 5G expansion, integrate satellite and terrestrial networks, and protect contractors while enabling new connectivity services.
Amazon Seeks FCC OK for Satellite Mobile Service
Amazon filed with the FCC to launch additional Project Leo low Earth orbit satellites to support a mobile Direct-to-Device (D2D) service. The company plans a constellation expansion of 5,105 LEO satellites, will operate acquired Globalstar assets alongside existing satellites, and intends to partner with mobile operators to deliver coverage for consumers and enterprise use cases. Amazon cited use cases including disaster response, fleet management, IoT connectivity, and emergency messaging. The company has announced operator partnerships (Vodafone, DIRECTV, Herotel, Australia’s National Broadband Network) and aims to begin deploying its D2D network in 2028. The plan is compared to Starlink’s existing carrier partnerships with T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T.
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