What will the FCC decide at its September 30 open meeting?
The Federal Communications Commission has scheduled an open meeting for September 30, 2026. The session will cover five rulemaking items that could reshape satellite spectrum, ultra-wideband devices, emergency calling, and robocall protections.
Satellite spectrum gets a massive expansion
A Report and Order on the agenda unlocks more than 1,000 megahertz in the 12.7 GHz and 42 GHz bands. That capacity targets satellite broadband for homes and in-flight connectivity. One Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking asks for comment on an additional 1,175 megahertz across the Ku- and Ka-bands plus 138.25 gigahertz in the D-band. Another FNPRM explores three new bands spanning thousands of megahertz for spacecraft control and data links supporting in-space servicing and assembly. Manufacturing in orbit is also listed. The dockets involved are SB Docket No. 25-180, SB Docket No. 26-54, GN Docket No. 22-352, WT Docket No. 23-158, and GN Docket No. 14-177.
UWB rules rewritten for AI sensing
A Notice of Proposed Rulemaking under ET Docket No. 26-245 would modernize Part 15 rules for unlicensed ultra-wideband devices. Current applications include automobile sensors and door locks. Ground- and wall-penetrating radars also use UWB, as does location tracking for NFL players during games. The NPRM updates definitions and measurement procedures, and also revises technical parameters. It also addresses outdated restrictions
The sources this article was written from
- "Federal Register Notice 2026-19920
https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/09/29/2026-19920/sunshine-act-open-commission-meeting-wednesday-september-30-2026"