The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has proposed a new rulemaking that could significantly expand direct-to-device (D2D) satellite communications by allowing innovative unlicensed wireless devices to communicate directly with satellites.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said the proposal aims to explore how nearly 225 megahertz of unlicensed spectrum can help meet the growing capacity requirements for D2D services while complementing existing satellite spectrum bands.
The proposed Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), which is expected to be considered at the FCC’s August Open Meeting, would examine reforms enabling devices operating under the FCC’s Part 15 rules to communicate with FCC-authorized satellites on both uplink and downlink frequencies. The proposal would also clarify that equipment authorized under Part 15 rules can legally operate on FCC-authorized spacecraft.
The initiative builds on the FCC’s Supplemental Coverage from Space framework, which has enabled satellite operators to extend mobile connectivity to areas lacking terrestrial cellular coverage. The commission believes expanding unlicensed spectrum access for D2D could improve connectivity in remote locations, reduce communication dead zones, and accelerate innovation in satellite-enabled wireless services.
Brendan Carr said combining rapidly expanding direct-to-device satellite networks with the country’s extensive ecosystem of unlicensed wireless technologies could transform connectivity by extending satellite access directly to smartphones and connected devices.
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and IoT Devices Could Gain Satellite Connectivity
The proposal covers devices operating under the FCC’s Part 15 regulations, which include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, wireless local area networking equipment, medical imaging devices, wireless microphones, automobile and garage door remote controls, and a wide range of Internet of Things (IoT) sensors.
By eliminating the need for individual spectrum licenses, Part 15 regulations have supported decades of innovation in consumer and enterprise wireless technologies while minimizing harmful interference. Extending these devices to communicate with satellites could create new hybrid terrestrial-space communication services and provide consumers with additional connectivity options.
More Than $40 Billion Invested in U.S. Direct-to-Device Market
The FCC highlighted the rapid expansion of the U.S. direct-to-device satellite ecosystem, noting that more than $40 billion has flowed into the American space economy for D2D services since the Supplemental Coverage from Space framework was introduced.
Several major transactions demonstrate growing industry investment:
SpaceX acquired 65 megahertz of D2D spectrum from EchoStar in 2025 for $19.6 billion.
AST SpaceMobile announced a $550 million agreement to use L-band spectrum currently leased to Ligado.
Amazon and Rocket Lab recently announced separate acquisitions collectively valued at nearly $20 billion to purchase Globalstar and Iridium, including their direct-to-device spectrum portfolios.
The FCC also recently reaffirmed the exclusive D2D spectrum rights held by U.S. innovators, providing greater legal certainty for satellite operators investing in direct-to-device services.
Beyond enabling satellite connectivity for consumer devices, the NPRM would explore allowing unlicensed Part 15 wireless devices to operate onboard spacecraft and support communications between spacecraft.
