POLITICO Tech Why you should care about the spectrum fight
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Apr 26, 2022 John Hendel, a POLITICO technology reporter, dives into the complexities of the U.S. radio spectrum management. He discusses the alarming technical flaws in radios that could hinder future communication advancements. The conversation highlights the contentious 5G spectrum debate, emphasizing potential aviation safety issues and regulatory challenges. Hendel also explains the FCC's ongoing struggle to manage spectrum effectively amid industry resistance, as well as recent legal updates impacting the landscape.
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Receiver Regulation Gap
- Modern radios mainly lack regulation on the receiver side, causing interference issues in crowded spectrum environments.
- This regulatory gap harms new wireless technologies like 5G and complicates managing spectrum efficiently.
5G Launch Delayed by Aviation Concerns
- In January, 5G rollout delays were caused by airlines fearing interference with older altimeters.
- This resulted in a public spectacle involving FAA warnings, government officials, and major telecoms postponing service.
FCC's Long-Delayed Receiver Oversight
- The FCC has long been aware of receiver interference issues but hesitated due to legal uncertainties and industry pushback.
- Now, bipartisan consensus and recent spectrum fights push the FCC toward revisiting and possibly enforcing receiver standards.