New Rulemaking Broadens Spectrum Access And Streamlines Rules For Services Connecting Mobile Phones Directly To Satellites

Today, the Connect Everyone Coalition (CEC) applauded the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) adoption of a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to modernize its Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS) rules and advance direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity at the October Open Commission Meeting.

Originally adopted in March 2024, SCS rules allow satellite operators to partner with terrestrial mobile network operators to deliver cellular services directly to smartphones using licensed spectrum. The new rulemaking builds on that foundation by making an additional 482 megahertz of spectrum available for SCS, streamlining existing requirements and modernizing the SCS and Mobile Satellite Service (MSS) frameworks. These changes can help satellite and mobile network operators extend coverage, close connectivity gaps and give consumers more ways to stay connected.

“Connecting everyone, everywhere requires every tool in our connectivity toolbox, including technologies that bring satellite connectivity directly to mobile phones,” said Connect Everyone Coalition Executive Director, Richard Cullen. “The FCC is taking an important step toward modernizing rules so D2D services can help reach people beyond the limits of terrestrial coverage. We applaud the Commission for advancing policies that support innovation, expand connectivity options and help communities stay connected, making it easier for everyone to live, work and communicate.”

Today’s action follows the submission of a CEC comment letter earlier this month urging the FCC to advance D2D connectivity and support policies that encourage innovation, investment and reliable communications.

About Direct-to-Device

D2D services enable standard mobile devices to communicate directly with LEO satellites without specialized hardware, helping fill coverage gaps even with continued investment in fiber, fixed wireless and mobile networks. Rather than replacing terrestrial infrastructure, these services function as a complementary layer that extends coverage in difficult-to-serve areas and provides a critical backup during emergencies. 

About the Connect Everyone Coalition

The Connect Everyone Coalition is a broad-based coalition of more than 120 leaders committed to educating the public and policymakers on the importance of extending fast, affordable broadband access to everyone, everywhere. The coalition supports an innovative, tech-neutral approach to expanding broadband access that takes full advantage of new technologies and connectivity options, including advances in LEO satellite broadband. We showcase the transformative power of LEO satellites’ ability to connect anyone, anywhere, and we support updating broadband strategies and modernizing space policy so unserved and underserved communities across our nation and world can fully benefit from this game-changing new option.

Read more about the FCC action HERE.

Learn more about Direct-to-Device connectivity HERE.

Learn more about the Connect Everyone Coalition HERE.