On July 31, 2026, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) published the final rule on the Federal Register website regarding flexible use of the C band, with most provisions set to take effect on September 29, 2026. This rule allows 160 MHz of spectrum in the 3.98 to 4.14 GHz band for flexible wireless services within the United States. The rules establish the licensing, auction, operational, and technical framework for this spectrum, as well as arrangements for transitioning existing fixed satellite services and protecting radio altimeters in adjacent bands. The FCC plans to auction the new flexible use license for the C band by July 4, 2027.

Click this link to view the original announcement on the Federal Register website