FCC Finalizes Rules That Now Will Allow ASTS, AT&T And Verizon To Do A Joint Spectrum Lease Filing

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has finalized rules that enable AST SpaceMobile, AT&T, and Verizon to proceed with a joint spectrum lease filing. This development expands on the previous regulations and allows the terrestrial licensees to lease terrestrial spectrum rights to satellite operators for the purpose of enhancing their services. The lease will commence 21 days after the filing, and the parties involved have sought relevant waivers to facilitate the integration of satellite connectivity into AT&T's mobile access technologies.

1. Impact on AST SpaceMobile: AST SpaceMobile, operating as the first space-based broadband cellular network, will benefit from this arrangement by leveraging AT&T's terrestrial spectrum in the 850MHz and lower 700MHz frequencies. This access to spectrum will enable AST SpaceMobile to provide additional coverage to unserved and underserved areas, using standard unmodified mobile devices.
2. Benefits for AT&T: By leasing spectrum to AST SpaceMobile, AT&T is aligning with the public interest and promoting essential FCC policy goals. This collaboration aims to enhance coverage in areas where traditional terrestrial networks may not be sufficient, providing potential benefits in disaster zones. AT&T has emphasized that the spectrum lease aligns with their public interest and contributes to the evolution of direct-to-device satellite connectivity.
3. Verizon's Involvement: As a major player in the telecommunications industry, Verizon's participation in this joint filing further underscores the significance of this development. By allowing Verizon and other terrestrial licensees to lease spectrum to satellite operators, the FCC is facilitating the integration of satellite technology into terrestrial networks, which could lead to improved coverage and services for consumers.
4. Industry-Wide Implications: The FCC's decision paves the way for other satellite operators and terrestrial licensees to explore similar leasing arrangements, potentially leading to a more seamless integration of satellite-based services into the broader telecommunications landscape. This could have significant implications for the expansion of broadband access, particularly in rural and remote areas.

In conclusion, the FCC's finalization of rules allowing ASTS, AT&T, and Verizon to do a joint spectrum lease filing represents a significant step forward in the integration of satellite technology into terrestrial networks. This development has the potential to enhance coverage and improve services for consumers, particularly in areas that are underserved by traditional terrestrial networks.