US spectrum policy / Satellite networks
FCC Opens 1,050 MHz for Satellite Broadband as Direct-to-Device Plans Continue
The decision adds room for satellite internet links in the US. It does not itself turn ordinary phones into satellite broadband terminals.
The decision
The US Federal Communications Commission voted on 30 September to open more than 1,000 MHz of spectrum in two bands for satellite communications. The new rules are aimed chiefly at extra capacity for home satellite broadband, ground gateways and connections on aircraft and ships. Direct-to-device phone services are a separate regulatory track.
It is a spectrum rule change, rather than a new consumer package or a guarantee of faster speeds. Satellite operators still have to obtain the relevant permissions, build capacity and put the frequencies to use. The FCC meeting agenda and the Satellite Industry Association’s account of the vote confirm the order’s adoption.
The frequencies
Where the 1,050 MHz comes from
The order covers the 12.7–13.25 GHz range, which is 550 MHz wide, and the 42–42.5 GHz range, which is 500 MHz wide. Together they add up to 1,050 MHz. They are separate portions of the radio spectrum, each with different permitted uses.
Widths represent the amount of spectrum in each band, not their position on the frequency dial.
Broader fixed-satellite operations, including downlinks to user terminals and certain uplinks from licensed gateways or earth stations on aircraft and vessels, under the order’s conditions.
Fixed-satellite downlinks to individually licensed gateway and feeder-link earth stations. This is ground-network capacity, not a new 42 GHz phone service.
The FCC’s public draft of the order lays out the technical permissions and protections for existing users. The vote adopted the spectrum-abundance order; its practical effect will depend on subsequent licences, network equipment and deployment.
A different type of connection
Where direct-to-device fits
Direct-to-device means a compatible phone or other small device communicating with a satellite without a home dish. That is a different radio link from a fixed satellite broadband terminal or a high-capacity gateway.
One satellite network, different links
A home broadband dish, an operator’s ground gateway and a phone connecting directly to a satellite have different jobs and spectrum requirements. The 1,050 MHz order concentrates on satellite broadband and network links; it does not allocate those bands as a general new mobile-phone connection.
The FCC already has a separate framework for satellite coverage using a mobile operator’s licensed spectrum, and it has proposed additional direct-to-device rules for some unlicensed bands. That proposal is open to the rulemaking process; it was not made final by this September spectrum vote.
For a fuller account of the phone technology, see what Starlink Mobile is and how direct-to-phone coverage works.
What happens next
Will customers see a speed increase?
The added spectrum gives operators more options for capacity. Whether that becomes a measurable improvement depends on the satellites, terminals, gateway sites, licences, interference protections and investment used to turn the permission into a working network. The FCC has not announced a date when household packages will change.
The US decision has no direct effect on UK spectrum rights or an existing UK Starlink subscription. UK satellite-to-phone services follow their own national permissions and operator arrangements; our O2 Satellite guide covers that separate consumer service.
The takeaway
The FCC has adopted rules opening 1,050 MHz in two US bands to more satellite use, especially broadband and supporting links. Direct-to-device phones remain a related but separate regulatory story. The extra capacity can help future services once operators deploy it.
Quick answers
FCC satellite spectrum FAQs
01How much spectrum did the FCC open?
The two ranges total 1,050 MHz: 550 MHz at 12.7–13.25 GHz and 500 MHz at 42–42.5 GHz. The FCC described the decision as opening more than 1,000 MHz for satellite services.
02Is the 1,050 MHz for direct-to-device phones?
Not as a general new phone allocation. The order chiefly supports satellite broadband terminals, gateways and mobility links such as those used on aircraft and ships. Direct-to-device phone services use separate regulatory arrangements.
03Does this make satellite broadband faster now?
No immediate speed increase is guaranteed. Operators need suitable licences, satellites, terminals and ground infrastructure before additional spectrum can improve a customer’s service.
04Does the FCC decision change UK satellite service?
No direct UK rule change follows from a US spectrum decision. UK availability and operation depend on UK permissions and each provider’s network and plans.
Hasnaat MahmoodBroadband and telecoms writer