AT&T, T‑Mobile and Verizon ask FCC to carve out 290 MHz from satellite spectrum proposal
The three largest U.S. wireless carriers filed a joint petition with the Federal Communications Commission urging it to exclude 290 MHz of mid‑band spectrum – the 2.5 GHz and 3.45 GHz bands – from the Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS) framework. The carriers argue the bands are essential for their 5G networks and that satellite use would cause severe interference. The FCC is scheduled to vote on the SCS proposal on October 29, 2026.
Why it matters
If the FCC removes the 290 MHz carve‑out, satellite operators such as SpaceX would lose access to key mid‑band frequencies, limiting the rollout of direct‑to‑device services and preserving the carriers’ 5G capacity. The decision will shape the competitive landscape between terrestrial wireless providers and satellite broadband firms.
Key facts
- 1AT&T, T‑Mobile and Verizon are jointly petitioning the FCC to exclude 290 MHz of mid‑band spectrum from the SCS proposal. satnews.com
- 2The disputed 290 MHz represents roughly 60 % of the 482 MHz of spectrum the FCC is considering for satellite use. satnews.com
- 3The FCC will vote on the SCS proposal at its open meeting on October 29, 2026. satnews.com
- 4The carriers contend that the 2.5 GHz and 3.45 GHz bands are architecturally incompatible with satellite operation because of TDD timing constraints. techtimes.com
- 5T‑Mobile said satellite interference could wipe out up to 96 % of a cell site’s uplink coverage and cut uplink speeds by 88 % to 99 %. teslarati.com
- 6SpaceX has been approved for a 15,000‑satellite constellation and has acquired mid‑band and low‑band spectrum to support its Starlink Mobile service. techtimes.com
Summary written by AlphAI AI Desk from 3 of 3 sources. Not investment advice. Figures are as stated by the linked sources.