In a significant regulatory push, AT&T (NYSE: T), T-Mobile (NASDAQ: TMUS), and Verizon (NYSE: VZ) have formally requested that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) exclude two major 5G frequency bands from its proposed satellite-to-phone spectrum expansion. The joint filing, made public on October 23, 2026, seeks to remove 290 megahertz (MHz) from the 482 MHz that the FCC had suggested adding, a reduction of 60.2%. If the carriers' objections are upheld, the eligible spectrum would still grow from the current 344 MHz to 536 MHz, representing a 55.8% increase, according to calculations derived from the FCC draft.
The dispute centers on the technical challenges of enabling satellite signals to share frequencies with terrestrial mobile networks, which rely on carefully synchronized time-division duplex (TDD) systems. In TDD, phones and towers alternate transmitting and receiving on the same channels, and satellite transmissions could interfere with these precisely timed operations. Protecting both tower receivers and handsets from interference is a core concern raised by the carriers, prompting the FCC to solicit input on potential synchronization solutions.
The two contested bands are the 2500–2690 MHz range (commonly referred to as the 2.5 GHz band) and the 3450–3550 MHz range (the 3.45 GHz band). The FCC identifies T-Mobile as the primary holder of 2.5 GHz licenses and long-term leases, while AT&T is the main licensee in the 3.45 GHz band. These national frequency spans do not necessarily reflect each carrier's holdings in every local market, but they underscore the carriers' substantial interests in preserving control over these spectrum assets.
The CTIA trade association, representing the wireless industry, submitted a letter on October 22 after meetings with advisers to the three FCC commissioners. The letter, signed by Scott Bergmann, CTIA's senior vice president of regulatory affairs, argues that the technical challenges “remain unresolved today.” CTIA supports the concept of satellite coverage in remote areas but opposes the specific changes proposed in the FCC draft. PCMag independently reported the carriers' opposition on October 23, corroborating the filing's account.
Beyond the frequency exclusions, the dispute extends to the regulatory framework governing spectrum use. The FCC proposes replacing mandatory spectrum leases with certified coexistence agreements or proof of terrestrial license ownership. CTIA, however, insists that carriers should retain consent, control, and termination rights over any arrangements with satellite operators. This would mean that even if a band remains eligible, satellite providers would still need to negotiate workable agreements with terrestrial licensees.
Another point of contention is the proposed aggregate signal strength limit of −76 dBm per square meter per MHz at license boundaries. CTIA argues that this terrestrial boundary test may not adequately protect neighboring networks from satellite signals. The association is urging the FCC to conduct further study on this protection limit before finalizing any rules.
T-Mobile's involvement is particularly notable given its existing satellite connectivity partnership with SpaceX (NASDAQ: SPCX). The carrier already offers satellite messaging and data services through its collaboration with the aerospace company, having announced satellite app support in October 2025. T-Mobile has cautioned that the satellite data experience may differ from terrestrial 5G, but it has not provided specific speed figures for the disputed bands.
The FCC is scheduled to consider the draft on October 29, 2026. If adopted, the proposal would open a 60-day comment period following publication in the Federal Register, with reply comments due 30 days later. The immediate question is whether the two contested bands remain part of the consultation. Industry analysts note that while the carriers' objections could delay the process, the remaining expansion would still represent a substantial increase in eligible spectrum for satellite-to-phone services.
Investors are watching the proceedings closely, as spectrum policy directly impacts the competitive landscape for wireless services. The outcome could affect the pace of satellite-to-phone deployment, potentially benefiting early movers like T-Mobile and SpaceX, while traditional carriers weigh the risks of interference with their terrestrial networks.
