New wireless bureau chief gives insight into his plans at FCC

BOULDER, Colo. – Recently installed Federal Communications Commission Wireless Bureau Chief Rick Kaplan ventured out west this week to participate in a question and answer session at a Silicon Flatirons event held on the University of Colorado-Boulder campus.
Having acknowledged that he was still new to the position, Kaplan seemed to possess a very good understanding of the challenges currently facing the wireless bureau, citing the convergence in wireless technologies, public safety and spectrum issues related to broadcasters as some of the issues currently on his plate.
On the topic of spectrum, Kaplan noted that the FCC was looking at ways to maximize the use of technology to take advantage of all spectrum possibilities, including licensed and unlicensed bands. The FCC has stated that up to 500 megahertz of new spectrum will be required over the next several years to keep up with consumer demand for new services.
Kaplan noted the need to fully utilize spectrum assets can be hampered by legacy technologies and spectrum allocations, both of which take time to find ways to fix.
Kaplan was also asked about two topics currently making headlines across the industry: AT&T Inc.’s proposed $39 billion acquisition of T-Mobile USA Inc. and LightSquared’s current GPS interference issues.
Speaking on the AT&T/T-Mobile USA deal, Kaplan said he could not get into specifics on the ongoing review, but did note that the commission was looking closely at all the variables involved with the proceedings and specifically the spectrum issues that such a merger might raise. One of the possible requirements for the deal’s approval could be network and spectrum divestitures, an idea that Kaplan said could be a possibility.
As for LightSquared, Kaplan said he felt the idea of using the L-Band spectrum assets for a commercial wireless service was in the best interest of consumers and that the commission did have the resources necessary to figure out a solution to the interference issues, though the commission is always looking for more ideas through open comments.
Kaplan also noted that momentum was gaining for the possible use of incentive auctions as a way to move more spectrum into the hands of wireless operators.
In general, Kaplan said the FCC would rather stay out of regulating the wireless industry, noting that the commission would rather the industry itself work out rules, but added that if those rules are not fair to consumers then the commission is not afraid to step in.