FCC Updates Bidding Rules for AWS-3 Inventory Auction

The Federal Communications Commission voted to update its competitive bidding rules to enable the upcoming auction of AWS-3 spectrum licenses. The AWS-3 auction—the first in many years—will benefit consumers and the U.S. economy by unlocking more of the invisible airwaves that connect communities. The auction proceeds will fund the FCC’s ongoing efforts to protect American networks from untrustworthy and insecure foreign equipment. Over the last 30 years, FCC spectrum auctions have been instrumental in making the United States a global pioneer in wireless. In 2014, the Commission auctioned AWS-3 spectrum licenses for commercial use, but certain winning bidders defaulted soon after. As a result, approximately 200 licenses have remained unused in the FCC’s inventory for nearly a decade. With today’s decision, the FCC comes closer to putting those spectrum licenses to productive use. In the weeks and months ahead, the Commission will announce auction application deadlines and bidding procedures.