The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is poised to authorize a new category of wireless devices that can operate at higher power levels within the 6 GHz Wi-Fi band. This change will also extend to certain wireless devices currently allowed only indoors, potentially expanding their operational scope.
Set for a vote on January 29, the FCC's proposal aims to establish a new category of unlicensed devices, termed Geofenced Variable Power (GVP) devices, which can function outdoors with greater power. According to the FCC, these devices will enable high data rates suitable for applications such as augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR), short-range hotspots, automation, and indoor navigation. By achieving higher power and outdoor mobility, they will overcome the limitations of previous device classes. These devices will need to be compatible with geofencing systems to prevent interference with fixed microwave links and radio astronomy sites.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr attributed the move to President Trump's influence, highlighting it in a press release entitled, “President Trump Unleashes American Innovation With 6 GHz Win.” This marks a shift from Carr's earlier position during the Biden administration, where he emphasized the FCC's independence from presidential influence.
Despite some previous regulatory actions by Carr facing criticism from consumer advocates, this move has been welcomed as a positive development. Michael Calabrese from New America's Open Technology Institute lauded the initiative, noting that increasing power levels for Wi-Fi connections to devices like AR/VR is highly advantageous for consumers and aligns with longstanding requests from the Wi-Fi community.
Carr expressed optimism about the decision, stating that it will enhance Wi-Fi quality by expanding unlicensed operations in the 6 GHz band. He emphasized that this advancement will foster a new era of wireless devices, encompassing AR/VR, the Internet of Things (IoT), and various innovative smart technologies. This will be facilitated by forward-thinking regulations permitting higher device power while safeguarding existing users through measures such as geofencing systems.