FCC to stage spectrum review

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is poised to stage a thorough review of how much spectrum a mobile carrier should be able to hold, Fierce Wireless reports, citing comments by the watchdog’s spokesman, Neil Grace. As such, the FCC is expected to vote on the order on 28 September this year. As per various US press reports, the order will look at spectrum transfers between companies will most likely explore whether or not to treat lower-band spectrum differently to higher-band radio waves. The rules under discussion determine the FCC’s so-called ‘spectrum screen’, which the regulator uses when reviewing spectrum transactions; if a carrier acquires too much spectrum and violates the screen, the deal is scrutinised more closely. The confirmation of the development follows the FCC’s recent approval of mobile giant Verizon Wireless’ USD3.9 billion purchase of 20MHz of nationwide AWS spectrum from a group of cable companies, as well as related spectrum deals with T-Mobile USA and Cricket provider Leap Wireless. Consumer groups and smaller carriers alike have repeatedly stated that both Verizon and AT&T Mobility own too much spectrum below 1GHz, and the FCC now looks set to address the problems posed by the perceived duopoly.