Us on track to become global 5g leader with massive spectrum auction

Chairman Brendan Carr has announced two major spectrum auctions, and T-Mobile is over the moon. The US is on the cusp of becoming the undisputed leader in 5G connectivity.

Upper c-band auction set for 2027, enabling 440 mhz 'super band'

The FCC will auction off 160 megahertz of spectrum in the Upper C-Band (3.98-4.14 GHz), creating a whopping 440 megahertz 'super band' when combined with the existing Lower C-Band. This unprecedented contiguous block of mid-band spectrum will set the US apart from any other country.

The auction will put 3,248 licenses up for grabs and is expected to rake in tens of billions of dollars for the Treasury. Carriers will use this prime spectrum to significantly improve their wireless services.

2.7 Ghz band auction also planned for 2028

Speaking at the FCC Open Commission Meeting, Carr also committed to holding several auctions in 2028, including the 2.7 GHz band. This move aims to alleviate the chronic spectrum shortage carriers face and solidify the US's wireless leadership.

T-Mobile CEO Srini Gopalan has hailed the decision as a stepping stone to 6G, anticipating the extra mid-band spectrum to drive innovations and speed boosts in the coming years.

While customers won't reap immediate benefits, the rules dictate that carriers must wait until December 2030 to light up the Upper C-Band in the top 75 markets, and until July 2031 for everywhere else. This delay allows satellite operations currently occupying the band to relocate.

The FCC notes that the new rules build on the success of the Lower C-band auction, which brought 5G to the masses. The availability of more spectrum is expected to drive down prices, boost speeds, and bolster competition.