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Senate Bill Threatens Wi-Fi Speeds with Spectrum Sale

6/28/2025

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Left

Trump Supports Spectrum Sale

The Senate's budget reconciliation bill, backed by President Trump, aims to sell unlicensed spectrum in the 6GHz Wi-Fi band to mobile carriers, which could hinder Wi-Fi speeds. The FCC's potential auction of 800MHz of spectrum raises concerns for Wi-Fi 6E and 7, prompting the Wi-Fi Alliance to advocate for preserving the 6GHz band to foster future technological advancements.

Center

Cruz Secures Spectrum Deal

Senate Commerce Committee Chair Ted Cruz has struck a pivotal deal on spectrum auctions, extending FCC authority until 2034 and opening up 800MHz of spectrum. While this agreement safeguards vital military frequencies and supports giants like AT&T and Verizon, it raises concerns for the cable industry and Wi-Fi users, as the auction of the 6GHz band looms.

History

Historical Context

The 1996 Telecommunications Act deregulated the U.S. communications industry, allowing the FCC to auction spectrum and generating over $20 billion for the Treasury. This shift laid the groundwork for ongoing spectrum management debates. In 2023, a Senate bill proposed auctioning 800 MHz of spectrum, reflecting the ongoing tension between technological advancement and telecom interests, impacting future connectivity.

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Trump Supports Spectrum Sale

The Senate's budget reconciliation bill, backed by President Trump, aims to sell unlicensed spectrum in the 6GHz Wi-Fi band to mobile carriers, which could hinder Wi-Fi speeds. The FCC's potential auction of 800MHz of spectrum raises concerns for Wi-Fi 6E and 7, prompting the Wi-Fi Alliance to advocate for preserving the 6GHz band to foster future technological advancements.

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