The government’s push to increase the reach and depth of wireless services received a boost from the Federal Communications Commission, which this week adopted new rules regulating signal boosters and plans to free up new spectrum assets for unlicensed wireless broadband services. The signal booster order, which passed with unanimous consent, states that beginning March [...]

The Federal Communications Commission yesterday began a “field hearing” looking into the telecommunications break down associated with Superstorm Sandy that lashed the Northeast. The panel, which convened in New York and Hoboken, N.J., included FCC commissioners, communication providers, public safety officials and representatives from local and state governments. “Our nation’s communications infrastructure is a vital [...]

Following on the heels of the Federal Communications Commission and the four national wireless carriers committing to offering text-to-911 capability, TeleCommunication Systems has introduced what it calls the first commercial enabler of such a service. The FCC has proposed requiring all wireless carriers and some over-the-top text messaging providers to implement technology that will allow [...]

Softbank’s planned $20.1 billion purchase of a controlling interest in Sprint Nextel hit another potential snag this week as the Department of Justice sent a letter to the Federal Communications Commission asking that review of the deal be deferred in order for “any national security, law enforcement and public safety issues” to be reviewed. “We [...]

The Federal Communications Commission laid out rules for spectrum recently approved for use by Dish Networks, including build out requirements, as well as rules for 10 megahertz of spectrum it expects to auction off next year. The government agency noted that Dish Networks, should it agree to accept the conditions on gaining control of 30 [...]

The small cell market is set for a boost from the Federal Communications Commission, which today unveiled a notice of proposed rulemaking to create a “Citizens Broadband Service” in the 3.5 GHz spectrum band that “will promote two major advances that enable more efficient use of radio spectrum: small cells and spectrum sharing.” As part [...]

The Federal Communications Commission made a small step in bringing additional wireless spectrum assets to market by freeing up 40 megahertz of spectrum in the 2 GHz band for terrestrial mobile services. That spectrum was originally set aside for satellite-based telecommunications services and is currently core to Dish Network’s long-announced plans to enter the mobile [...]

The Federal Communications Commission looks to be continuing its support of future-looking telecommunication technologies – including wireless – announcing this week the formation of an agency-wide “Technology Transitions Policy Task Force” that according to FCC Commissioner Julius Genachowski, “will play a critical role in answering the fundamental policy question for communications in the 21st century.” [...]

The Federal Communications Commission can compel commercial wireless carriers to provide data roaming arrangements, according to a ruling by the U.S.Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in a lawsuit brought by Verizon Wireless. When small carriers began to run into difficulties persuading larger rivals to make reasonable data roaming relationships, the Federal [...]

The need for adequate and reliable in-building communication has gained recognition across the nation in recent years. Mobile phones are an extension of the work day now and need to be accessible at all times. This often calls for more detailed, defined coverage within buildings. But, carriers cannot always address this problem in a cost-effective [...]