Washington — The Federal Communications Commission moved on Thursday (Jan. 30) to free up 30 MHz of spectrum for new wireless services.
The spectrum would be used for third-generation wireless services also known as "IMT-2000." The spectrum was reallocated from the 2 GHZ Mobile Satellite Services band and shifted to what the agency classifies as fixed and mobile services.
The FCC also said it was seeking comment on the possible uses of an additional 15 MHz of spectrum previously identified as possible frequencies for new wireless services.
"These actions will facilitate more efficient use of existing spectrum and enable an expanded array of innovative products and services for consumers," the commission said.
Fixed and mobile services will be assigned to the 1990-2000 MHz, 2020-2025 MHz and 2165-2180 MHz bands. Additional frequencies that could also be targeted for 3G services include the 1910-1920 and 2155-2160 MHz bands.
The FCC had been under stiff international pressure to free up spectrum for 3G wireless services, but the global telecommunications meltdown allowed it more time to identify and reallocate spectrum bands. The process also was slowed by Defense Department opposition to proposed spectrum reallocations.
Separately, the FCC denied a petition to reallocate the entire 2 GHz mobile satellite band for terrestrial wireless services.
