The FCC ratified Wi-Fi 6E this morning
The 6GHz spectrum is officially open for unlicensed use in the USA. …
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During the Federal Communications Commission’s monthly meeting today, it ratified unlicensed use of the 6GHz radio frequency spectrum in the USA. This decision opens the way for the proposed Wi-Fi 6E standard to move forward.
Industry giants Intel and Broadcom began planning for this move two years ago. Broadcom released its first Wi-Fi 6E chipset in February, targeted at mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. Intel hasn’t released any actual products using it yet, but in discussions with Ars, an Intel rep confirmed that they’re on the way.
Intel’s spokesperson said that the company’s own working prototype devices were part of the presentations originally given to the FCC to facilitate the decision-making process and described Intel’s and Broadcom’s work on devices prior to the FCC’s decision as a risky but rewarding two-year investment on both companies’ part.
The rules so far
Although the FCC was widely expected to unanimously ratify unlicensed use of 6GHz spectrum in general, the associated usage rules were less certain. Until today, the 6GHz spectrum was for licensed use only—but that doesn’t mean it isn’t already in use.
Licensed use of the 6GHz spectrum includes point-to-point microwave backhaul (used by commercial wireless providers), telephone and utility communication, and control links. It also includes Cable Television Relay
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