FCC Adopts Plan for C-Band Auction in July 2027

The Federal Communications Commission set America up to lead the world in next-gen connectivity by adopting rules to auction 160 megahertz of spectrum in the Upper C-Band (3.98-4.14 GHz) by July 2027. By bridging the Lower C-band and Upper C-band, the FCC will create a single, harmonized “super band” spanning 440 megahertz (3.70-4.14 GHz)—a gigantic swath of licensed, 5G-grade mid-band spectrum that no other industrialized country can boast. The FCC will auction 60 percent more spectrum than the 100 megahertz minimum required under law, a decision that will raise tens of billions of dollars more for the U.S. Treasury to support deficit reduction and national priorities. The FCC is moving to deliver an auction of the Upper C-band on time, on budget, and with no surprises. The auction is on track to close by the statutory deadline of July 2027, and the FCC’s new rules ensure that the Upper C-Band can be lit up for most Americans before the end of 2030—faster than originally expected.