Spectrum

FCC to Consider New Higher-Power, Outdoor Devices at 6 GigaHertz

Wi-Fi supporters were pleased with the announcement.

Jake Neenan

Jake Neenan

— 2 min read
FCC to Consider New Higher-Power, Outdoor Devices at 6 GigaHertz
Photo of FCC headquarters from the agency

WASHINGTON, Jan. 7, 2026 – The Federal Communications Commission will vote this month on creating a new category of higher-power, outdoor devices in the 6 GigaHertz (GHz) band, the agency announced Wednesday.

The agency said geofenced variable power (GVP) devices would “support high data rates suitable for AR/VR, short-range hotspots, automation, and indoor navigation” and “overcome limitations of previous device classes by allowing higher power and outdoor mobility.”

GVP devices would be restricted from operating on certain frequencies in exclusion zones to protect incumbent users in the unlicensed band.

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Spectrum FCC Michael Calabrese NCTA Brendan Carr

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