The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently voted to jump-start the implementation of high-speed 5G wireless networks and to ease the passing from standard landline phone systems.
All five members of the commission voted "yes" for the designation of a consistent spectrum to serve both the grounded wired broadband networks and next-gen wireless broadband services.
The 5G services are expected to bring speeds significantly faster than those from 4G wireless networks.
The FCC designated spectrum from higher bands than those presently used, namely 39 GHz, 37 GHz and 28 GHz. The spectrum will allow even more data to reach customers.
Tom Wheeler, the chairman of the FCC, touted that the vote makes United States a pioneer in the 5G era. He notes that the country is the first to create a framework of high-band spectrum, opening the door for the creation of "low-latency wireless networks" packing ultra speeds and massive capacity.
Several big names in tech showed interest in 5G, with important trials set for next year and infrastructure implementation scheduled for 2018.
The President of the Consumer Technology Association, Gary Shapiro, commended the FCC's decision. He points out that the Commission's decision to give away spectrum on a "lightly licensed or unlicensed basis" should push the innovation that was previously seen in the development of wireless market.
The FCC passed another vote with a 5-0 score, where regulations were updated for telecommunications providers. The new guidelines will help the companies switch easily from dated telephone networks to up-to-date wireless and internet-based voice networks.
Commissioner Mignon Clyburn explains that the FCC's order is a way to make sure the consumer sector will get the expected tech upgrade as soon as possible in the form of reliable and secure voice service.
Harold Feld, the senior vice president of consumer advocacy group Public Knowledge, commends the commission's commitment to providing universal communications connectivity. He compares the FCC's recent votes to the state policy that, 100 years ago, delivered a phone to "every farm and every home."
"The FCC has also provided a tool for ensuring that no one is left behind in the broadband revolution," Feld affirms.
Despite former tensions between carriers and advocacy groups, the two parties took an unusual step and issued a joint statement, pledging to "work together in the spirit of cooperation and good faith."
As a side note, the FCC mentions that it will not enforce new regulations targeted at preventing disputes between providers of pay-TV services and broadcast networks.
Wheeler wrote in a blog post that the Congress offered the FCC the power to weigh the "totality of the circumstances" when such a dispute ensues. This means that the FCC has the capacity to determine the good faith of the parties involved in the deal.
He also supports the fact that the edict is "intentionally broad," allowing the agency more room for negotiation. Wheeler points out that more rules are ineffective in mediating the conflicts that can appear. However, it is important to be able to bring the two parties involved to the negotiations table to remind them of their responsibility to consumers.
