FCC Expected by Some Members to Propose Sharing 6 GHz With Wi-Fi, Eyeing 5G

Commissioners Mike O’Rielly and Brendan Carr are hopeful the FCC will soon propose sharing the 6 GHz band with Wi-Fi and other unlicensed users. “The conversation” here “has matured extensively,” O’Rielly said after Thursday's commissioners' meeting. “I’m excited about where we’re about to land.” He predicted an item could come in Q1. If we get rid of hyperbole and sensationalism, “we can get to the right mitigation mechanisms and the protections needed from different types of unlicensed,” he told us in Q&A. “I think we’re just about ready to turn the corner.” Carr said he has had “some very productive meetings” with power companies using the band. The band is “part of a 5G ecosystem that we need to develop,” he said. “I see the opportunity here for a significant win. … There are still decisions to be made on that band.”